The Drogheda Implementation Board and An Garda Síochána have launched a new safety campaign called "Ask for Angela", supported by the Drogheda & District Chamber, Restaurants Association of Ireland, Vintners Federation, members of the Drogheda Taxi Federation and Love Drogheda BIDs.
"Ask for Angela" focuses on giving anyone experiencing an uncomfortable night out, or who feels unsafe in the company of someone they are with, a discreet way of signalling to venue staff or security that they are in need of assistance. The person need only ask to speak to "Angela" and venue staff can take steps to assist them, such as moving them to out of sight areas, calling a taxi or having the person causing the distress removed from the venue. An Garda Síochána still advise to contact the Garda if the person causing the distress becomes angry or violent.
The campaign was originally started in England to keep people safe from sexual assault and has been previously rolled out in Waterford, Sligo and most recently in Donegal. Similar safety campaigns have been implemented in the USA. "Ask for Angela" is being rolled out in Drogheda ahead of the busy Christmas and New Years season, but will remain in place throughout the year. The Drogheda Implementation Board and An Garda Síochána have promised further campaigns in 2023, all aimed at keeping Drogheda safe for all who work, visit, live and socialise in our town.
Venues who are supporting the "Ask for Angela" campaign can collect stickers to place in restrooms or posters with "Guidance for Venue Staff" from our office at Unit 5 Meatmarket Lane. Further information on the campaign can be requested by contacting implementationboard@lmetb.ie.
To help spread the word of this campaign use the #askforangela.
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