Ask for Angela training is part of the wider programme which also includes broader vulnerability training to create 150 capable guardians across businesses, transport and other stakeholders active in the night-time economy, a Best Bar None scheme for the town centre which supports licensed premises to ensure they have robust operating policies to support a healthy, vibrant night out, and a new vehicle for Open Road SOS Bus.

The initiative is being rolled out in premises across the city centre now, which will provide a reassuring message to the returning students at Uni of Essex. Ask for Angela materials will be on display on the Essex Police and CBC stands at the Fresher's Fayre on 7th October.

The city centre scheme compliments the initiative that is already embedded within the Student Union at the Uni of Essex.

BID Manager Sam Good said “We’re proud to be working with key stakeholders and industry experts to support Colchester’s’ night-time economy businesses. The work produced from this partnership aims at supporting venues to help safeguard their visitors and ensure that all visitors to Colchester City centre have a safe and enjoyable time. In addition to the enhanced messaging around the Ask for Angela campaign and the support businesses receive implementing this, the BID is also working on providing further support services for the leisure industry. This includes a resource page on the Our Colchester website signposting people to recommended charities and organisations to assist people who may feel vulnerable.

This Ask for Angela campaign is in addition to the BIDs current support of night-time and leisure businesses in the city centre, including regularly attending and participating in Nights of Action, Pubwatch Committee, and focused marketing.”