Ask for Angela

The Ask for Angela scheme is an initiative that helps people who are on a date or who have met someone at a venue and feel unsafe get help from bar staff. This scheme has been implemented across Swindon and Wiltshire in conjunction with Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Council.

The scheme aims to reduce sexual violence and vulnerability by providing customers with a non-descript phrase they can use to get the attention of staff members who can help separate them from the company of someone with whom they feel unsafe due to that person's actions, words or behaviour. 

Anyone who feels unsafe in such a situation can get help from bar staff by simply asking to speak to "Angela". Staff will then assist the person in leaving the venue discreetly and getting home or to a place of safety. This could mean taking the distressed person out of sight, calling for a taxi and making sure they get home okay or even asking the person causing distress to leave the venue if appropriate.

Always call the police if the situation becomes hostile, threatening or there is cause for concern about the victim's safety.

• Venues in participating areas can download  posters (PDF) [2MB] (opens new window)  and  guidance (PDF) [1MB] (opens new window)  for bar staff
• Visit This is not an excuse (opens new window) for more information about the scheme as well as advice on sexual assault, domestic violence, sexual exploitation and rape