New domestic abuse codeword scheme launched in pharmacies
Date added: 26 January 2021
The Home Office has launched a domestic abuse codeword scheme in thousands of pharmacies across the UK.
The Ask for ANI codeword scheme allows those at risk or suffering domestic abuse to discreetly signal to pharmacy staff that they need help accessing support.
By asking for ANI, a trained pharmacy worker will offer a private space where they can understand if the victim needs to speak to the police or would like help to access support services such as a national or local domestic abuse helplines.
Pharmacies can provide a safe space for victims to sound an alarm if they are isolated at home with their abuser and unable to get help in another way.
The scheme is in response to the impact of Covid restrictions and the ability for victims to reach out for help and support. The scheme was initially proposed by survivors as something that would have helped them.
Follow the hashtag #YouAreNotAlone on social media.
For more information, please visit www.gov.uk/domestic-abuse or email AskforANI@homeoffice.gov.uk.
