Ask for Angela

The “Ask for Angela” initiative, introduced in 2016, provides a discreet lifeline for individuals feeling unsafe in bars or clubs by enabling them to seek help by asking staff for “Angela.”

However, recent national media reports have highlighted a lack of awareness in many prominent establishments, with several staff admitting they are unfamiliar with the concept.

While headlines criticizing these venues for ‘failing in their duties to the public’ grab attention, it’s easy to see how education on the subject has often slipped through the cracks. Despite its obvious value, the scheme is purely voluntary, not government-led, and carries no statutory requirement for implementation.

This is where quizzes can play a significant role in safeguarding the reputation of hospitality chains. A simple onboarding quiz for all new employees, combined with an annual refresher, could ensure that all bar staff are well-versed in the initiative and know exactly how to respond in a range of situations.

Here is a simple 10-question quiz that you might like to adopt and use:

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What is the “Ask for Angela” initiative, and why is it important in a bar setting?

a) A government program to inspect bar safety

b) A code phrase customers can use to discreetly ask for help if they feel unsafe (**Correct**)

c) A staff-only term for calling a manager

d) A campaign to encourage alcohol awareness

Reminder: The initiative ensures that vulnerable individuals can seek help without attracting unwanted attention.

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If a customer approaches you and asks for “Angela,” what is the first action you should take?

a) Tell them Angela isn’t available

b) Call the police immediately

c) Discreetly guide them to a safe space and notify a manager or security (Correct)

d) Ask them to explain why they need help

Reminder:  Acting calmly and guiding the person to safety is crucial for maintaining their trust and security.

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How can you ensure that your response to an “Ask for Angela” request remains discreet and professional?

a) Whisper to the person and lead them to a private area (Correct)

b) Announce to the bar staff what’s happening

c) Ask the customer for proof of their concern

d) Ignore the request unless you sense immediate danger

Reminder:  Discretion and professionalism help de-escalate situations and avoid alarming others.

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What should you do if you are unsure whether a customer’s request for “Angela” is genuine?

a) Ask them directly if they are joking

b) Treat the request as genuine and act accordingly (Correct)

c) Wait to see if they repeat the request

d) Notify a colleague but take no action

Reminder: Always err on the side of caution—better to respond than risk someone remaining in danger.

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Why is it important to create a safe and non-judgmental environment when responding to an “Ask for Angela” request?

a) To avoid offending the person asking for Angela

b) To ensure the person feels supported and trusts your actions (Correct)

c) To follow company protocol

d) To avoid wasting time on unnecessary complaints

Reminder: A supportive environment encourages individuals to seek help when they need it most.

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Who should you notify immediately after receiving an “Ask for Angela” request?

a) The bartender on duty

b) A manager or security personnel (Correct)

c) Another customer who might help

d) The kitchen staff

Reminder: Involving the appropriate authority ensures the situation is handled swiftly and correctly.

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How can you identify subtle signs that a customer might be in distress and hesitant to ask for help directly?

a) They avoid eye contact or seem nervous (Correct)

b) They order the most expensive drink

c) They talk loudly about their issues

d) They keep checking their phone

Reminder:  Being observant of body language and behaviour can help you intervene when someone needs assistance.

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 What training resources or guidance can you refer to if you need more information about handling “Ask for Angela” situations?

a) Online tutorials provided by the government

b) Your workplace training program (Correct)

c) Asking a customer for advice

d) Reading the bar’s drink menu

Reminder: Familiarize yourself with your workplace’s specific policies and resources to feel more prepared.

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Why is it crucial to treat every “Ask for Angela” request seriously, even if it appears to be a false alarm?

a) To avoid getting in trouble with management

b) Because failing to act could endanger someone’s safety (Correct)

c) To increase customer satisfaction ratings

d) Because the customer might leave a bad review

Reminder: Treating all requests seriously reinforces trust in the initiative and ensures everyone’s safety.

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How can practicing responses to “Ask for Angela” scenarios during training help you feel more prepared on the job?

a) It boosts confidence in knowing what to do (Correct)

b) It ensures you never make mistakes

c) It makes the initiative mandatory by law

d) It eliminates the need for further training

Reminder:  Role-playing scenarios during training help you act confidently and effectively in real situations. 

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Feel free to print the questions above and use them in your training. Alternatively, make things easier by enlisting the help of HR Quizzes to effortlessly administer these quizzes online.

Once the media spotlight turns on you, it’s too late to wish you had acted sooner – just ask the well-known hospitality chains that have recently faced a storm of negative publicity!

 

Colin King – CEO of HR Quizzes