Police have have urged people to get to know a domestic abuse code word which victims can use to report crime.
Forth Valley cops took to Facebook yesterday, Sunday January 2, to promote the ANI (Action Needed Immediately) scheme created by the Home Office.
It seeks to give those suffering abuse a means of discreetly alerting people that they need help.
By using the code phrase ANI, staff at pharmacies - including all Boots stores and other independent sites - will be able to call police for assistance.
Pharmacies will display posters in their windows and around the pharmacy to let customers know they are there to help .
Any information shared will be treated confidentially.
Sharing the appeal on their Facebook page, Forth Valley Police Division added: "When a victim uses the codeword or asks for help, the member of staff will ask the victim to accompany them to the consultation room.
"They will then check whether the victim is in danger and wants the police to be called.
"If so, the staff member will offer the use of a phone to dial 999 or make the call on the victim’s behalf.
"If the victim is not in an emergency situation, the staff member will support the victim to contact a national domestic abuse helpline or local support service.
"They may also contact the police via 101."
