Vincent Geaves becomes National Ambassador for Ask for Angela
congratulations vinnie
This month, our very own Vincent Geaves has been recognised for his commitment, and invited to join Ask for Angela as a National Ambassador.
National Ambassadors have pledged their support to the scheme, and share a mission to reduce violence against women, girls and other potentially vulnerable groups, and to improve public safety.
The BID team would like to congratulate Vinnie and thank him for the major role he plays in leading safety initiatives for the night time economy, and beyond. Working collaboratively with law enforcement, local stakeholders and industry leaders, Vinnie supports venues across the city to deliver safer socialising for all and protect those most vulnerable in our communities.
WIDER ACTION ACROSS THE CITY
During a time of transition for the city, Vinnie has shown dedication to delivering the best possible training and support for Colchester venues. This includes championing and delivering schemes including Ask for Angela and Best Bar None. Other notable projects include Vulnerability and J9 Safe Space Training, Winter of Safety Campaigns and Tap2Change.
In 2023, Colchester proudly received its first Purple Flag accreditation, recognising the wealth of initiatives delivered across the city and the evidence of strong partnership working with S.O.S Bus, Pubwatch, Colbac, City Centre CCTV team and Colchester City Council Cleansing team.
Vinnie is a driving force behind continued improvement and ongoing facilitation in Colchester City Centre.
WORDS FROM OUR PARTNERS AND COLLABORATORS
“As the Business Crime Liaison Officer, Vinnie has been a tremendous support for all our tenants when dealing with retail crime. As a BID director, I witness the hard work and pride Vinnie consistently puts in on a daily basis, supporting every business within the Colchester BID zone. It comes as no surprise to me that he has been appointed as the National Ambassador for Ask for Angella, given his unwavering commitment to his role. Well done, Vinnie; it’s well deserved!” -
David Robertson, Centre Manager, Culver Square Shopping Centre and BID director
“Vinnie works selflessly with partners, including Lion Walk, at the drop of a hat, to ensure customers are safer and feel more comfortable as they visit the city centre, Vinnie is a credit to Colchester and an asset to the safety and security of any organisation he engages with”.
Martin Leatherdale , Centre Manager, Lion Walk
About Ask for Angela
Ask for Angela is needed because:
- 97% of women aged 18-24 and 80% of all women said they had been sexually harassed in public spaces in the UK
(UN Women UK ) - 53% of women experience sexual harassment in a pub, club or bar
(YouGov) - One in five LGBT people have experienced a hate crime or incident because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity
(Stonewall)
The scheme works by training staff in vulnerability management and what to do when someone Asks for Angela.
You can find out more at AskforAngela.co.uk