If you’re in an uncomfortable situation on a night out, you can use the code word to get help. Ask for Angela is a code word campaign that supports people who feel unsafe or intimidated while on a night out.
The initiative began in Lincolnshire in England in 2016 and received a lot of positive feedback internationally, and since then has been introduced in parts of Ireland. First rolled out in Waterford in November 2017, Cork County Council, Limerick and Sligo have also backed the campaign.
The Gardaí fully support the roll-out of this campaign nationwide.
How does Ask for Angela work?
Whether you’re on a night out with friends, meeting someone for the first time, or on a date that just isn’t working out, if you’re uncomfortable and need some support, Ask for Angela can help.
You can go up to the bar or a member of staff and ask for ‘Angela’. The code word lets bar staff know if you’re feeling uncomfortable and need a way to get out of your situation.
The staff member will discreetly separate you from the person and talk to you to find the best way to deal with the situation. They may call you a taxi so you can get home safely, or remove the person from the bar or nightclub.
Who is Ask for Angela for?
Ask for Angela is for anyone, of any age, gender or sexual orientation who feels uncomfortable, intimidated, or unsafe on a night out.
How will I know the bar or club I’m at participates in Ask for Angela?
Participating venues will have the Ask for Angela poster in the toilets or elsewhere in the venue, explaining what to do and how they can help. Bar staff will also have information on how to respond when someone asks for Angela.