'Ask for ANI' is a new domestic abuse codeword scheme launched by the Home Office with support from Boots and other independent pharmacies.

This follows the revelation yesterday that, according to official figures, in the first three months of the COVID-19 pandemic, a fifth of offences recorded by police officers in England and Wales related to domestic abuse.

Merseyside Police Commissioner Jane Kennedy and Merseyside Police have welcomed the new codeword scheme which will give victims a chance to ask for help from the safety of their local pharmacy.

'Ask for ANI' has been created to help victims get emergency support in a safe and discreet way by using the codeword 'ANI' (Action Needed Immediately). This alerts staff and means that the victim needs an emergency police response, or help to contact a domestic abuse specialist support service.

Participating pharmacies are displaying posters in their windows and around their shops to let customers know that they can approach a member of staff to seek help.

When a victim uses the codeword or asks for help, the member of staff will ask them to accompany them to a consultation room. They will then check whether the victim is in danger and want the police to be called. If so, they will be given a phone to dial 999 or they will make the call on the victim's behalf.

Alternatively, if the victim does not need emergency help at that time, the staff member will assist them to contact a national domestic abuse helpline or local support service. They may also contact the police on the non-emergency 101 number.

Participating Boots stores in our part of the world or nearby are:

- Boots, Telegraph Road, Heswall, CH60 0AL

- Boots, Teehey Lane, Bebington, CH63 8QT

- Boots, Arrowe Park Road, Upton, CH49 0UB

= Boots, Commonfield Road, Arrowe Park, CH49 7LP

Detective Chief Inspector Bev Hyland from Merseyside's Police's Protecting Vulnerable People Unit said: "Merseyside Police fully supports the Ask for ANI scheme, and our staff are fully briefed and will respond to any calls received. This scheme is particularly welcomed, at a time when victims of domestic abuse may feel isolated and unable to reach out for help.

"I would like to reiterate that Merseyside Police will respond to all incidents of domestic abuse, and victims will be dealt with in a sensitive manner. There is also support available to victims through domestic abuse support services across Merseyside, who have still been operating throughout lockdown.

"Victims should not suffer in silence, and I am hoping the 'Ask for ANI' scheme, will provide another way in which victims of domestic abuse can seek help."

Please note: If you are in immediate danger, always call 999.

If you ring 999 and are not in a safe position to speak to us then cough or tap the phone and press 55, when prompted. This will alert the operator that you need assistance.