Northampton pubs and bars urged to sign up for free ‘Ask for Angela’ training ahead of Freshers’ Week
Pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants in Northampton are being urged to sign up for free training designed to help staff support people who feel unsafe or vulnerable on a night out.
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is promoting its Ask for Angela training ahead of Freshers’ Week, when thousands of students are expected to arrive or return to Northampton.
The nationally recognised scheme allows anyone who feels unsafe while on a date, night out or in another social situation to discreetly seek help from venue staff by asking for “Angela”.
Trained employees can then respond appropriately and provide assistance in a safe and discreet way.
The free training covers how the scheme works, vulnerability awareness, safe intervention techniques and how staff should respond when somebody asks for help.
Participating venues can also receive resources, promotional materials and official Ask for Angela window stickers.
WNC is working with Northamptonshire Police and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone as part of wider efforts to improve safety in the night-time economy.
Councillor Charlie Hastie, WNC deputy leader and cabinet member for housing and communities, said: “Freshers’ Week is an exciting time for students arriving in West Northants and those returning for another academic year, and we want everyone to feel safe while enjoying our local venues.
“Ask for Angela gives people a simple and discreet way to get help if they feel vulnerable, while helping venue staff respond with confidence and support when it’s needed.”
Ms Stone said women’s safety in public spaces was a priority for her and encouraged organisations which had not already joined the initiative to sign up.
She said: “By working together, we can protect women and make our nighttime economy safer.”
Hospitality businesses already operating Ask for Angela are also being encouraged to register with West Northamptonshire Council so they can receive the latest training opportunities, resources and promotional materials.
Further details about the scheme and training are available on the West Northamptonshire Council website.