Women and girls who need help on nights out, on the Isle of Wight, can 'Ask for Angela' as part of new safety measures, when Covid-19 restrictions are lifted.

If you feel threatened while in a pub or club, you can approach the bar and ask for ‘Angela’.

Posters will be on display at participating venues and asking the question will alert staff, who will offer to separate you from the person who is causing you discomfort or distress and ensure you are able to leave safely.

Support for the project is among the preparations being made by Hampshire Constabulary, ahead of the lifting of coronavirus rules from Monday (July, 19).

Police say the changes are likely to tigger an increase in the number of people using clubs, pubs and bars.

Officers from the force's licensing department are working with neighbourhoods policing teams (NPT) and Isle of Wight Council to speak to venues and door staff.

With a focus on tackling violence against women and girl, it is working to help them spot the signs of someone who is vulnerable, being abused, or who needs help.

The Isle of Wight's volunteer street pastors are also meeting with the specialist policing teams.

Inspector Andy McDonald said: "Nobody deserves to feel unsafe at night, and everyone has the right to enjoy themselves safely and comfortably.

“Violence, sexual violence and harassment are offences that we simply do not tolerate in any setting. Being on a night out and having a few drinks does not excuse criminal behaviour.

"As we head towards the lifting of restrictions, our focus for the night time economy will be in part enforcement – whereby police will respond to and challenge any harassment and criminal behaviour reported to us – but also largely around partnership working to create a safer environment for people using clubs, pubs and bars.

"A key part of this is ensuring that women and girls in particular feel safe, have someone to turn to for support if they are affected by criminal behaviour and sexual violence, and also feel confident that they can get home safely after a night out."

“We encourage anyone who feels uncomfortable whilst on a night out to approach patrolling officers, street pastors, venue staff or door staff. If no-one is available and you feel unsafe you can call 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.”

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