A CAMPAIGN designed to help support those feeling vulnerable and in need of help on a night out has been launched.

Police in Manchester have launched the nationally recognised ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme across pubs and clubs.

The title of the scheme, which is a play on the word angel, is simple code word designed to empower members of the public into seeking help to reduce sexual violence and abuse in the area.

Those who ask a member of staff in a pub or club signed up to the scheme for Angela will then be offered an opportunity to be taken to a safer location.

The victim is then able to speak out about the help that they require.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Bridge, from Greater Manchester Police, said: “By providing members of the public, both male and female the opportunity to seek help through the use of a non-descript phrase we are able to empower them into getting out of a situation which makes them feel uncomfortable.

“Those asking for help may be in the company of someone who is not what they seemed and they want to get away safely. Staff are then in a position to provide a variety of options including, calling a taxi, contacting friends and in serious circumstances ringing police.”

As part of the initiative a poster featuring the campaign slogan ‘Ask for Angela’ will be delivered to venues across the area.

They will be placed in the toilets of those establishments, so as to be discreet.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Bridge added: “We want this campaign to resonate with the community and show that we take the issue of sexual abuse and violence seriously.

"As this is a pilot area, we are hoping that if is a success it can be rolled out Forcewide.”