Why You Might Need to "Ask for Angela" in a Pub, Café, or Restaurant Over the Christmas Period

The festive season is one of joy, laughter, and celebration, but it's also a time when many of us find ourselves socialising more than usual—whether that's catching up with friends at a local pub, enjoying a cosy coffee date at a café, or indulging in a festive meal at a restaurant, or a work Christmas do.

However, not every social situation goes as planned, and sometimes, things can take an uncomfortable or even dangerous turn. 

That's where the "Ask for Angela" initiative comes in—a discreet code phrase that can offer an essential lifeline to anyone feeling unsafe.

What is "Ask for Angela"?

"Ask for Angela" is a safety campaign that was introduced in the UK in 2016 to help individuals discreetly signal that they need help if they are feeling threatened or unsafe. 

The idea is simple: if you're in a pub, café, or restaurant and feel uncomfortable—whether that's because of a bad date, a stranger’s unwanted attention, or just a situation that doesn’t feel right—you can go up to a member of staff and "Ask for Angela". Staff members will understand that this is a code for needing assistance and will then help you to leave the situation safely, either by arranging a taxi, offering a safe space, or even calling the authorities if necessary.

Why the Festive Season Can Be Riskier

Christmas is a time for celebration, and many of us use it as an opportunity to unwind and socialise. Unfortunately, the festive season also comes with increased risks:

Alcohol and lowered inhibitions: Many people drink more over the Christmas period, which can lead to poorer judgement and, in some cases, unwanted advances or inappropriate behaviour.

Busy venues: Pubs and restaurants are often packed during the festive season, making it easier for uncomfortable situations to escalate unnoticed by others. It's harder for friends to keep an eye on each other when crowds are large, and staff are often rushed off their feet.

Meeting new people: The Christmas season is a popular time for online dating, blind dates, and social gatherings with strangers. While most encounters go smoothly, the reality is that not everyone you meet will have good intentions. "Ask for Angela" offers a way out if your date takes an unexpected or unsettling turn.

Increased loneliness and vulnerability: Not everyone feels festive cheer during Christmas. Some people may feel lonely or vulnerable and, as a result, might end up in situations they’re not entirely comfortable with. Whether it's being pressured into staying longer than you’d like or dealing with someone who won't take "no" for an answer, it's important to have an exit strategy.

How "Ask for Angela" Works

If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, the process of using "Ask for Angela" is straightforward:

Approach a staff member: Find a member of staff behind the bar, counter, or at the reception area. It’s best to do this away from the person causing the discomfort if possible.

Use the phrase discreetly: Simply say, "Can I speak to Angela, please?" The staff should recognise this as a request for help and will take you aside to assess the situation discreetly.

Receive assistance: Depending on the circumstances, staff may offer to call a taxi, escort you to a safe area, or alert security or the police. They are trained to help you leave the situation without drawing attention to the fact that you're seeking help.

How Venues Can Support the Initiative

For "Ask for Angela" to be truly effective, venues need to actively participate. Here are some ways that pubs, cafés, and restaurants can make sure the initiative works:

Display posters: Visible signs in bathrooms, near the bar, or in seating areas can help remind patrons that this service is available.

Train staff: Employees should be trained on how to respond quickly and discreetly if someone uses the "Ask for Angela" phrase.

Create a supportive atmosphere: Encouraging a safe environment and zero tolerance for harassment can go a long way in preventing uncomfortable situations from arising in the first place.

Final Thoughts

The "Ask for Angela" initiative is an empowering tool that can help ensure everyone feels safe while socialising, especially during the Christmas period when people are more likely to be out celebrating. Whether you're meeting friends, family, or even new acquaintances, it's comforting to know that help is just a discreet question away.

So, this festive season, while you're out enjoying yourself, keep "Ask for Angela" in mind—not just for yourself, but for others who may need support. By raising awareness and using it when necessary, we can help make the holiday season safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Stay safe, and happy Christmas!

Going out this Christmas? How to Use "Hi, I'm Angela" in a Pub or Restaurant if You Need Help

In today's world, ensuring safety in social spaces like pubs and restaurants is more important than ever. One campaign that has gained significant attention for its practical approach is the "Ask for Angela" initiative. 

This discreet code phrase is designed to help people feel secure and get assistance if they find themselves in uncomfortable or potentially dangerous situations while out.

Here’s a breakdown of what “Ask for Angela” is, and how you can use it effectively if you ever need help.

What is the “Ask for Angela” Campaign?

The "Ask for Angela" campaign was introduced to tackle situations where individuals may feel unsafe during a date or night out. 

Perhaps you've arranged to meet someone for the first time, or things have taken an unpleasant turn during an outing. Rather than having to publicly call out the situation, which can often be intimidating, the campaign provides a discreet and simple way to signal for help.

When you say “Hi, I’m Angela” to the staff at participating pubs, bars, or restaurants, it acts as a pre-agreed signal that you need assistance. Trained staff will then take steps to help you out of the situation discreetly.

How to Use “Hi, I’m Angela”

Find a Staff Member: If you ever feel uncomfortable, look for a member of the staff. Whether it’s at the bar, in the dining area, or near the entrance, approach them with confidence.

Ask for Angela: You don't need to explain the details of your situation. Simply say, “Hi, I’m Angela.” Most staff members in venues that support this initiative will immediately recognise the phrase and understand that you need help.

Follow Their Lead: Once you've said the phrase, the staff will know to assist you. They might offer to take you to a safe area, escort you to a taxi, or simply help you leave the situation without attracting attention. Some places may even help create a distraction if necessary, or contact authorities if the situation calls for it.

When Should You Use It?

On a Bad Date: If you're meeting someone for the first time and things don't feel right, "Hi, I’m Angela" can be your lifeline to exit the situation gracefully.

In an Uncomfortable Environment: If a stranger is making unwanted advances or the overall atmosphere is unsettling, use the phrase to signal that you're uncomfortable.

If You Feel Threatened: In more serious situations where you feel you could be in danger, using the phrase can help you get out quickly and safely without confrontation.

Why It Works

The beauty of "Ask for Angela" is that it gives you control over the situation without needing to cause a scene. It’s a subtle way of letting others know you need help, while avoiding embarrassment or escalating tension. This approach is especially useful if you're worried about how the other party might react.

Tips to Keep in Mind

Look for Participation: Not all venues may be familiar with the "Ask for Angela" initiative. Many places that do participate will display posters or information in the bathrooms or around the venue. However, it’s always worth asking even if there’s no visible sign.

Stay Aware: If you're planning to use the initiative, try to assess whether the staff looks approachable or if there’s a better time to ask (such as when the person making you uncomfortable isn’t nearby).

Stay Calm: Know that once you ask for Angela, the staff are trained to handle the situation calmly and professionally. Trust in the process.

Final Thoughts

The "Ask for Angela" campaign is a brilliant, simple, and effective way to promote safety in social settings. Whether you're on a date, having a drink with friends, or out for a meal, it’s empowering to know that help is available with just a few words. Knowing you can discreetly ask for assistance is an important tool in maintaining personal safety and ensuring a night out doesn’t turn into something uncomfortable or worse.

So, the next time you're in a pub or restaurant and feel the need for help, remember: "Hi, I'm Angela" could be your key to safety.

Stay safe, and never hesitate to use the tools at your disposal to protect yourself.