LloydsPharmacy’s 1,400 stores across the UK have joined the ‘Ask for ANI’ initiative to help support people at risk of domestic abuse.
ANI, which stands for ‘Action Needed Immediately’, is a new UK-wide code word scheme launched by the government to tackle a surge in domestic violence levels during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Those in need of help can now discreetly use the code word when talking to a pharmacist at LloydsPharmacy who in turn will offer a private space to talk and see if any help is needed from the police or other services such as domestic abuse helplines.
LloydsPharmacy’s superintendent pharmacist, Victoria Steele, said: “LloydsPharmacy has a robust safeguarding policy and procedures in place, all our pharmacy teams are trained and will be discreet and confidential. We are in an ideal position to help as our pharmacy teams are seen as trusted and accessible within the community and we have always provided an invaluable service to patients.
“We are proud to say that the majority of our pharmacies will be taking part, those with a private consultation room or area. With over 1,400 pharmacies across the UK, predominantly in community and health centre locations, being part of this initiative will potentially help many victims. We want our customers to know that we’re always here for them with advice and support when they need it most”.
