Ask for Ani Codeword Scheme

We have been asked to raise awareness of the Home Office’s “Ask For ANI” (Action Needed Immediately) Codeword Scheme for victims of Domestic Abuse, whether you have already signed up or are interested in doing so and where to find details about the scheme, training and promotional materials.

Ask for ANI (Action Needed Immediately) is a codeword scheme developed by the Home Office to provide a discreet way for victims of domestic abuse to signal that they need emergency help from the safety of their local pharmacy. Victims of domestic abuse will be able to use the codeword ANI in participating pharmacies (including all Boots stores and participating independent pharmacies) to let staff know that they require an emergency police response or help contacting a helpline or specialist support service.

Pharmacies have a very important role to play, they are convenient and accessible safe places for those needing help when facing or experiencing domestic abuse.  if supporting the scheme please ensure you display the “Ask for Ani” Poster available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ask-for-ani-and-safe-spaces-schemes-promotional-materials , that all your staff are aware of the scheme & briefed, with any new staff informed at induction and that all appropriate staff receive the necessary training.

Resources –

• Full details of the scheme can be found on the PSNC website at – https://psnc.org.uk/our-news/community-pharmacies-implementing-ask-for-ani-scheme-to-help-domestic-abuse-victims-hailed-as-a-success/  and on Gov.uk at – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ask-for-ani-and-safe-spaces-schemes-training-toolkit
• Guidance for pharmacies implementing the “Ask For Ani “ Domestic Abuse Codeword Scheme can be found at – https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/940379/Training_information_-_Ask_for_ANI.pdf
• If you don’t already support the scheme but are interested in doing so please see the link at – https://www.homeofficesurveys.homeoffice.gov.uk/s/0hk4ao to confirm your participation
• Training information and promotional materials for pharmacies to deliver the Ask For ANI Scheme can be found at – https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ask-for-ani-domestic-abuse-codeword-scheme-pharmacy-materials and “Ask for Ani and safe space Scheme at – https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ask-for-ani-and-safe-spaces-schemes-pharmacy-materials

If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the Home Office at: AskforANI@homeoffice.gov.uk

Thank you for your vital support for “Ask For Ani”