Are you a victim of domestic abuse? Help is at hand.
A new codeword scheme has launched across pharmacies nationwide to assist victims of domestic abuse. The scheme offers victims a discreet way to signal they need emergency help.
Ask for ‘ANI’
Victims can visit their local participating pharmacy and ask an assistant for ‘ANI’ (pronounced ‘Ann-ee’).
‘ANI’ stands for ‘Assistance Needed Immediately’, and once you’ve asked for ‘ANI’ a member of staff will accompany you to a consultation room. You will then be asked if you’re in danger and need the police to be called. If you do the staff member will either:
- Offer the use of a phone to dial 999
- Or make the call on your behalf.
If you’re not in an emergency, a staff member will help you to contact a national domestic abuse helpline or local support service. They may also contact the police via 101 (a non-emergency enquiry number).
Where to go?
Participating pharmacies will display an ‘Ask for ANI’ poster (pictured). They include all Boots stores plus independent pharmacies.
More support
This scheme is in addition to existing local and national services already available.
Pharmacies are also continuing to run the ‘safe space’ scheme and you may see posters promoting both the ‘safe space’ and ‘Ask for ANI’ schemes in participating pharmacies too (also pictured).
The pharmacy safe space scheme enables victims to use the consultation room to access information on domestic abuse support services.
Learn more about how to get help and the Ask for ANI scheme