The initiative allows victims to go to chemists and use the codeword “Ani” – standing for Action Needed Immediately – to appeal for help.
The ‘Ask for ANI’ programme was introduced last month to allow victims of domestic violence to discreetly use a codeword in order to access help. When a customer asks for ANI, a trained pharmacy worker will offer a private space where they can understand the victims needs, speak to the police, or provide access to specialist support services and helplines.
The programme is in place in over 2500 Boots stores and more than 200 independent pharmacies across the UK.
Since its launch, approximately one person per day has used the service to access potentially life saving support.
As Patron of SafeLives, The Duchess of Cornwall recently joined a video call to discuss the new ‘Ask for ANI’ scheme with Suzanne Jacob, Chief Executive, and Rachel Williams, a pioneer for the charity and survivor of domestic abuse.
Find out more about SafeLives here.
If you are in immediate danger, please call 999 and ask for the police.
If you are not in immediate danger, please call one of the following 24 hour helplines:
- England: 0808 2000 247
- Northern Ireland: 0808 802 1414
- Scotland: 0800 027 1234
- Wales: 0808 8010 800
