Safety Network Durham, Loblaws stores partnering on ‘Ask Angela’ campaign to keep shoppers safe

Safety Network Durham is partnering with grocery giant Loblaws in launching a program that aims to protect women and children – in fact, anyone in need of help – while shopping at any of the company’s stores.

The Ask Angela campaign, an innovative initiative that started in Britain in 2016, will allow customers to discreetly approach staff members at participating stores and request ‘Angela’ as a code phrase. This simple action will signal to the staff that the person may be unsafe and needs help.

Staff members, who have been instructed in acting promptly and compassionately, will guide the person to a secure and private location, allowing for open dialogue and an accurate assessment of their needs. They will then be offered connection to resources like Safety Network Durham, who provides wrap around support to women and children experiencing gender-based violence.

“We’re incredibly excited and proud to be launching this campaign in Durham Region,” said Riley Spigarelli, Manager of Safety Network Durham. “Ask for Angela will be vital in providing women a safe place to access support, when and where they need it”.

The campaign has garnered widespread recognition throughout Europe for its ability to assist people who feel unsafe, vulnerable or threatened and is used in bars and other venues to keep people safe from sexual assault.

Through its collaboration with Loblaws, Safety Network Durham aims to extend the reach of this program to Durham, ensuring the safety and protection of customers across the region.

Participating stores include Loblaws Real Canadian Superstore, Shoppers Drug Mart, No Frills, Valu-Mart, and Your Independent Grocers, and Real Canadian Superstore Oshawa manager David Mcalman said by working together with Safety Network Durham they can foster a safer, more inclusive community where “everyone feels protected and supported.”

“Ask for Angela is an important initiative that empowers individuals to seek help in unsafe situations, ensuring safety and support in our local communities through a discreet and effective approach,” Mcalman said. “As a store team, we are empowered to help.”