Pubs, bars and clubs that have signed up for a scheme designed to protect customers who are in fear for their safety are not implementing it, a BBC undercover investigation has found. The Ask for Angela initiative,

It is not something which should be taken lightly or for anyone to pay lip service to and this is essential if it is going to be trusted,’ charity head says

London’s pubs, bars and clubs are failing to enforce a scheme that enables women on a night out to use a safe word to venue staff if they feel under threat, an investigation has found. The ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme aims to make bars and clubs safer at thousands of venues across the country to help people feeling vulnerable to get support.

But undercover researchers found in more than half of the London venues tested, including major chains, staff failed to respond appropriately when assistance was needed. The BBC received similar reports from across the UK.