Ask for ANI

Victims of domestic abuse are able to use a codeword scheme to help them signal for help from the safety of a pharmacy.

Ask for ANI (Action Needed Immediately) has been developed by the Home Office to allow domestic abuse sufferers to signal they need emergency help to a chemist.

It has been developed to help those who have felt isolated and more difficult to ask for help during lockdown.

Victims of domestic abuse are able to use the codeword ANI in participating pharmacies (including all Boots stores and participating independent pharmacies) to let staff know that they require an emergency police response or help contacting a helpline or specialist support service.

Participating pharmacies will display posters in their window and around the pharmacy to let customers know that they can approach their staff to seek help. Any information shared will be treated confidentially.

When a victim uses the codeword or asks for help, the member of staff will ask the victim to accompany them to the consultation room. They will then check whether the victim is in danger and wants the police to be called. If so, the staff member will offer the use of a phone to dial 999 or make the call on the victim’s behalf.

If the victim is not in an emergency situation, the staff member will support the victim to contact a national domestic abuse helpline or local support service. They may also contact the police via 101.

Detective Chief Inspector Jon Capps, force tactical lead for domestic abuse said: "We welcome this scheme and working with pharmacies as another route of support for domestic abuse victims. If you are suffering domestic abuse we want to help you.

"It doesn’t matter who is threatening, controlling or abusing you - partner, family or friend; reach out for help and together with our partnership agencies we will do everything we can to support you. Please remember that even during lockdown, you can leave your home to get help."