Ask for ANI Scheme

Ask for ANI Scheme | Domestic Abuse

There is no age limit on domestic abuse. Age UK have been campaigning for data to be collected on all victims and survivors of domestic abuse, whatever their age. The Office for National Statistics has listened and will now start collecting this data on those aged 75+. This change means that older people will finally be included in conversations about domestic abuse.

This change comes at the perfect time. As of 14 January 2021, people experiencing domestic abuse will be able to access much-needed support from thousands of pharmacies across the UK. The government has teamed up with independent pharmacies and Boots to launch a domestic abuse Ask for ANI codeword scheme.

Ask for ANI

The Ask for ANI scheme allows those at risk or suffering from abuse to discreetly signal that they need help and access support. By asking for ANI, a trained pharmacy worker will offer a private space where they can understand if the victim needs to speak to the police or would like help to access support services such as a national or local domestic abuse helplines.

As an essential retailer based on high streets across the country, and with specifically trained staff, pharmacies can provide a safe space for people to sound an alarm if they are isolated at home with their abuser and unable to get help in another way.

Support from the Prime Minister

The Prime Minister committed to launch this scheme at the Hidden Harms summit last year in recognition of the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on the ability of victims to reach out for help and support. The scheme was initially proposed by survivors as something that would have helped them.

The scheme will be initially available through the 2,300 Boots stores across the UK as well as 255 independent pharmacies. There will be an on-going sign-up process open to all pharmacies.

Age UK North Tyneside are committed to being a One Stop Shop for people over 50 in North Tyneside. To find out more about the Ask for ANI scheme, or for any other support and advice, call our Customer Service team on 0191 280 8484 Option 1.

You can also report any safeguarding concerns you have to North Tyneside council by visiting My Care North Tyneside.