Words by Smiley Team
After investigations found incidents of domestic abuse soared in lockdown, the government has joined forces with Boots UK and independent pharmacies to tackle this pressing issue. By discreetly saying a new codeword to staff in any one of thousands of pharmacies across the UK, victims of abuse can access immediate help from police or other support services.
All 2,300 Boots UK pharmacies are participating in the scheme, which people can also learn about via a national advertising campaign to raise awareness.
Thanks to the Ask for ANI scheme, people at risk or suffering from abuse can discreetly signal for help at a pharmacy counter. A trained member of staff will then offer them a private space to speak and, depending on their situation, can help them reach the police or other support services.
The initiative will build on a project from the charity Hestia, UK SAYS NO MORE, Safe Spaces. Supported by Boots as well as Morrisons and Superdrug, it helps domestic abuse victims access support via pharmacies across the country.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson committed to launching this scheme last year in response to the increased risk of domestic abuse during lockdown. Johnson said: “As we once again have to ask people across the country to stay at home to tackle this virus, it’s vital that we take action to protect those for who home is not a safe space.
“That is why we have launched this scheme, supported by pharmacies up and down the country, to give some of the most vulnerable people in society a critical lifeline – making sure they have access to the support they need and keep them safe from harm.”
Safeguarding Minister Victoria Atkins added: “I know that lockdown restrictions are especially difficult for those experiencing domestic abuse. Home should be a safe place, but for those confined with an abuser, it is clearly not. The codeword scheme will offer a lifeline to all victims, ensuring they get urgent help in a safe and discreet way.”
With pharmacy workers moving to the frontline of services tackling Covid-19, this new initiative only builds on their efforts to support people through the pandemic.
Boots UK Chief Pharmacist Marc Donovan said: “With over 170 years at the heart of community care, Boots pharmacies have long been a place where people can turn to for help and advice on their local high street. Since the start of the pandemic, our 2,300 stores in communities across the UK have taken on increased importance as a place of safety for those who need one.”
You too can help vulnerable people by donating to charities such as Hestia that offer shelter and support to victims of domestic abuse. They are raising funds as part of an appeal to increase emergency refuge for victims during the winter months.
