Intro
The WA Government has launched the 'Ask for Angela' initiative in partnership with key industry organisations in the Perth and Northbridge Protected Entertainment Precinct (PEP).
The campaign is a simple way for licensed venues to offer practical help to anyone who is feeling vulnerable on their premises.
In the United Kingdom, 'Ask for Angela' has proven to be effective in helping to keep patrons safe when socialising at bars, pubs and clubs.
The campaign is named after Angela Crompton who was killed by her husband in 2012 near Norwich. It's now been rolled out around the world and in other Australian jurisdictions.
The idea is simple, but effective: patrons who are feeling unsafe at a licensed venue are encouraged to ask a staff member, 'Can I speak to Angela?' The staff member will know to discreetly help them out of the situation by moving to a safe space within the venue, arranging transport home or by calling police or emergency services if required.
The WA Government, through the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety, is working closely with the Australian Hotels Association WA, WA Nightclub Association and the Sexual Assault Resource Centre on the rollout of the campaign across venues in the Perth/Northbridge, Hillarys, Fremantle, Mandurah and Scarborough PEPs.
'Ask for Angela' will be introduced in the PEPs as part of the first stage of the campaign rollout. Feedback from venue staff and owners, along with advice from health and safety organisations and regional organisations will then be used to help develop location-specific content for venues throughout WA during the second stage.
Pubs, clubs, hotels, entertainment venues, sports clubs and restaurants can access more information and free resources via www.lgirs.wa.gov.au/ask-for-angela