Violence Against Women and Girls

Violence Against Women and Girls

🌟 Kent’s First Ask for Angela Operation: 15/15 Premises Pass! 🌟

On Friday 25 September, Neighbourhood Task Force took part in Kent’s first Ask for Angela test-purchasing operation, visiting 15 licensed premises across Margate and Ramsgate during the night-time economy.

Working in plain clothes, the officers put the scheme to the test. The female officer approached a member of staff and discreetly “Asked for Angela”, while her male colleague remained nearby to provide the scenario.

👏 We are delighted to report that all 15 premises passed with flying colours!

At every venue, staff recognised that the officer was asking for help. They checked that she was okay, moved her to a safe place away from the perceived risk, and offered appropriate support, including calling a taxi or contacting the police.

Feedback from premises was also extremely positive. Several staff members commented that, although they had received training and were aware of the scheme, they had never previously been placed in a real situation where someone had Asked for Angela. The exercise gave them an opportunity to put that knowledge into practice and consider how they would respond when faced with a potentially vulnerable person.

🎯 The operation aimed to:

Ask for Angela is more than a poster behind the bar. It is about staff recognising vulnerability, taking concerns seriously and knowing what to do when someone asks for help.

👏 15 premises visited. 15 positive responses. A great result for Thanet’s night-time economy.