This week we’re supporting ‘UK Says No More week - a national campaign aimed at ending domestic abuse and sexual violence across the UK.
UK Says No More work in partnership with Boots, Superdrug and Morrisons Pharmacies as well as independent pharmacies across the UK to provide safe spaces for domestic abuse victims in their consultation rooms. This is an extremely important resource as an abuser would not think that their victim could access help at a local pharmacy.
If a domestic abuse victim needs to access a safe space at any of the above pharmacies, they need to ask at the healthcare counter to use their safe space and a pharmacist will show them to the safe space. Once inside, they will be able to access a specialist domestic abuse support system to ensure they can access information or make any telephone calls they need to make. They will also be signposted to download the free mobile app Bright Sky which provides support and information to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship, or for those concerned about someone they know.
Whilst in the consultation room, victims will have access to a telephone and can make calls to:
- 24 hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
- Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 032
- Wales – Live Fear Free helpline (free phone 24/7): 0808 801 0800
- Northern Ireland - Domestic & Sexual Abuse: 0808 802 1414
- Scotland - Domestic Abuse & Forced Marriage Helpline (free phone 24/7): 0800 027 12
The Pharmacies are also part of the code word scheme ‘Ask for Ani’ whereby a victim can ask a member of staff in a pharmacy for Ani (action needed immediately) and the pharmacist shall then provide the safe space for the victim, being the consultation room. The code word can also be used in many hospitality venues across the UK. The Government have provided guidance to employers that offer a safe space for how to deal with and appropriately respond to domestic abuse victims who Ask for Ani. For more information, read our previous blog here.
If you or someone you know is suffering domestic abuse, please get in touch with our family team who can provide you with the legal assistance and support required in complete confidence. If you are in immediate danger, call the Police on 999.
If you believe you or someone you know are suffering from domestic abuse, we are here to help. Please get in touch with our Family team in confidence by calling 08000 147720 or email family@ramsdens.co.uk. We can provide assistance and obtain urgent injunctive orders for your safety and protection remotely via telephone or email and work closely with many local organisations offering help and support to victims.