From 14th January, as part of the government backed scheme victims of domestic abuse will be able to access much needed support from thousands of pharmacies across the UK without their abusers knowing about it.
The ‘Ask for ANI’ scheme allows those at risk or suffering from abuse to quietly signal that they need help. upon asking for ANI (Action Needed Immediately) a trained pharmacy worker will offer a private space where they can understand what kind of help would the victim like to access. They will be put in touch with the police, relevant support services or helplines
As an essential retailer based on high streets across the country, and with specifically trained staff, pharmacies can provide a private consulting room to the victims if they are isolated at home with their abuser and unable to get help in another way.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures, one in five of the offences reported during and after the first national lockdown were related to domestic abuse.
Remember to call 999 if you are in immediate danger.
