Ask for Annie

A discreet way for anybody to ask for help if you are experiencing domestic abuse.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 999. If you cannot speak, call 999 and press 55 when prompted.

What is Ask for Annie?

Annie is a codeword for ANI (Action Needed Immediately).

Ask for Annie is a confidential support scheme available at North Norfolk District Council Offices and through council staff. It gives you a safe, discreet way to let us know that you need help because you are experiencing domestic abuse.

If you ask for Annie when speaking to a member of staff, it signals that you need support. You do not need to explain your situation at that point or share details in public.

Our staff are trained to respond sensitively, without judgement, and to help you access the right support.

Who is Ask for Annie for?

Ask for Annie is for anyone who:

• is experiencing domestic abuse now or in the past
• feels unsafe at home or in a relationship
• needs advice, support, or information
• is not sure where to turn or how to ask for help

You do not need to be in immediate danger, and you do not need proof or paperwork to use the scheme.

How do I use Ask for Annie?

You do not need to say anything about domestic abuse. You simply need to ask for Annie in a natural way. For example, you could say:

• 'Is Annie working today?'
• 'Is Annie available?'
• 'Can I make an appointment with Annie?'

These phrases are recognised by trained staff as a request for domestic abuse support.

In person

• Visit one of our council offices
• Go to reception or speak to any member of staff
• Ask for Annie using one of the phrases above

You will be offered a private space and supported by trained staff.

By phone

If you are speaking to a council officer on the phone, you can ask whether Annie is available.

This will alert the officer that you need domestic abuse support.

What will happen next?

Once you ask for Annie:

• staff will respond discreetly and respectfully
• you will be offered a safe and private place to talk
• a trained Domestic Abuse Champion or Housing Options Officer will support you
• they will listen, explain your options, and help you decide what you want to do next

With your consent, they can:

• help you access specialist domestic abuse support
• talk through housing or safety options
• help you contact other services
• contact emergency services if there is an immediate risk

You remain in control of what you share and what support you accept.

Is Ask for Annie confidential?

Yes. We treat all Ask for Annie requests with discretion and confidentiality.

Information will only be shared:

• with your consent, or
• if there is a serious risk to your safety or someone else's

You are not alone

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. Help is available, and you do not have to face this alone.

If it feels difficult to explain or unsafe to speak openly, Ask for Annie, and we will help you take the next step at your pace.