For victims of gender-based violence and human trafficking, asking for help might not be an easy option.
Often, they are not left alone long enough to seek out a safe person.
Victim Services Wellington has partnered with Loblaw Companies Ltd. to create crisis support for victims with the launch of 'Ask for Angela', a transformative program that helps to foster a safer, more inclusive community where everyone feels protected and supported.
Traffickers often threaten their victims, their families and loved ones with physical harm and abuse if they think their exploitation might be reported, in turn, leaving victims worried about reprisal, violence and stigma.
'Ask for Angela' enables victims to discreetly approach trained staff members at participating stores, including Your Independent Grocers, Zehrs, No Frills and Shoppers Drug Mart and request to speak to 'Angela' as a code phrase.
This simple action will signal to staff that the individual may be unsafe and requires assistance. Staff members will guide the person to a secure and private location, allowing for open dialogue and an accurate assessment of their needs.
Victims will receive connections to resources such as Victim Services Wellington, which provides wrap around support to women and children experiencing gender-based violence.
"Loblaw started a pilot project in Toronto. It was very successful and so they decided to bring it to more communities including Caledon and Dufferin. They have launched it in Durham and Peel Region. So, we are now one of the regions to also take part," said Victim Services Wellington executive director, Elizabeth Kent.
"I think it's a great idea to have a place where a victim can feel comfortable to ask for help. And Loblaw has been able to train their staff when it comes to accessing help for victims."
The initiative marks the local adaptation of the highly successful 'Ask for Angela' campaign, originally established in the United Kingdom in 2016.
It started in bars and restaurants as a way to alert staff of sexual assault, trafficking or generally uncomfortable behaviour. Since then, the program has expanded to countries throughout Europe, Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.
The “Ask for Angela” campaign has garnered widespread recognition worldwide for its ability to assist individuals who feel unsafe, vulnerable, or threatened.
Through its collaboration with Loblaw and its stores, Victim Services Wellington aims to extend the reach of this program to Wellington County, ensuring the safety and protection of patrons across the county.
Since 1997, Victim Services Wellington believes that every victim has the right to heal from a crime or tragic circumstance. Services create opportunities to heal, foster hope and to promote a safer and healthier community.
Kent says the organization sees approximately seven to eight victims of human trafficking a year.
"It's growing. But we also really want people to know that this isn't just about women. It's for all genders. A lot of our crimes focus on women, but we do see male victims too. This is for everyone," Kent said.
"Also, I think one of the assumptions with Victim Services Wellington, is that because we are in a police station, with one office in the Guelph Police Station, and another in the OPP station in Teviotdale, I think that a lot of people think that if they come to see us, there has to be police involvement."
Kent says that's not the case.
"If a victim asks for help at a Shoppers Drug Mart, and we show up to assist them, that does not mean that they have to talk to police. That's the key," Kent said.
"Just because they are dealing with us, does not mean that they have to lay charges. It's totally up to them whether or not they want police involved."
Victim Services Wellington can also assist financially with the 'victim quick response program'.
"If we have a victim, and they want to go somewhere else because it's safer for them to be there, we can arrange for transportation to get them out of where they are, and go somewhere safer," Kent said.
For more information about the campaign or for anyone who would like to volunteer for Victim Services Wellington, visit here or call 519 824 1212 ext. 7205
"If people can get help by going to these places and access help in this way, then that's awesome," Kent said.
"These stores might be the only places where victims have an opportunity to ask for help."
