Free training offered to Northampton venues to help keep people safe on nights out
Hospitality staff are being encouraged to learn how to spot and support vulnerable customers ahead of Freshers' Week
Hospitality venues across West Northamptonshire are being encouraged to sign up for free training to help staff support customers who feel unsafe on a night out.
The push comes as thousands of students prepare to arrive in Northampton ahead of Freshers' Week.
West Northamptonshire Council is urging bars, pubs, clubs, restaurants and other venues to make sure their teams are equipped to help anyone who feels unsafe, vulnerable or in need of assistance.
How Ask for Angela works
The training explains how the nationally recognised Ask for Angela scheme operates and gives practical guidance on safe intervention techniques, vulnerability awareness and how to respond when someone discreetly asks for help.
The scheme allows anyone feeling unsafe while on a date, during a night out or in a social situation to seek support from staff by asking for "Angela".
Trained staff can then step in and offer help in a discreet and safe way.
Venues taking part receive training, resources, promotional materials and official Ask for Angela window stickers.
Keeping the night-time economy safe
The council is working with partners including Northamptonshire Police and the county's Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Danielle Stone, to support a safe and welcoming night-time economy.
Cllr Charlie Hastie, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at West Northamptonshire Council, said: "Freshers' Week is an exciting time for students arriving in West Northants and those returning for another academic year, and we want everyone to feel safe while enjoying our local venues.
"Ask for Angela gives people a simple and discreet way to get help if they feel vulnerable, while helping venue staff respond with confidence and support when it's needed.
"Many businesses are already doing a great job creating safe and welcoming spaces, and we'd encourage any hospitality venue that hasn't yet signed up to take advantage of this free training and help make nights out safer for everyone."
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone said: "Women's safety in public spaces is a priority for me, which is why I am pleased to help fund this initiative. I encourage organisations that haven't already to sign up for the free training and play their part in creating environments where everyone can enjoy themselves and feel safe.
"By working together, we can protect women and make our nighttime economy safer."
How to get involved
Venues already running the scheme are being encouraged to register with the council so they receive the latest training, resources and promotional materials.
More information about Ask for Angela training is available on the Northampton Town Centre Task Group webpage.