Our people
Behind Ask for Angela is a dedicated team working to improve safety in public spaces. Through training, partnerships, campaign delivery and ongoing support for venues and organisations, our team is committed to helping people feel safer and more supported when they’re out in public. Meet the people helping to drive the initiative forward and make a lasting impact across the UK and beyond.
Sylvia Oates
Sylvia is a director of Ask for Angela CIC and a leading voice in hospitality safety. With over 25 years’ experience in public safety, licensing and fostering partnerships, she works with businesses, local authorities and national bodies to improve safety standards. Sylvia leads the initiative’s growth and strategic direction, championing practical, inclusive tools that help individuals feel safe and supported in venues and public spaces. Sylvia is also CEO of Six Till Six.
Director
Iwona Kossek
Iwona is a director of Ask for Angela CIC and a highly experienced safeguarding and licensing professional. She has worked extensively with venues, police and local authorities to implement robust safety measures and respond effectively to vulnerability. Iwona leads on training and venue engagement, ensuring the Ask for Angela initiative is grounded in real-world frontline experience and delivered in ways that protect individuals and promote community wellbeing.
Director
James is co-director of Ask for Angela CIC and a licensing and legal specialist with a strong background in hospitality operations. Having had responsibility for numerous large late-night venues, he brings hands-on knowledge of risk, regulation and safety. James leads on legal, licensing and operational guidance for the initiative, ensuring it is practical, compliant and effective for businesses seeking to create safer, more supportive environments for their customers.
Co-Director
James Hoffelner
Isaac has worked in the hospitality industry since 2014 and has a strong interest in creating safer and more inclusive environments within the sector. He took a lead role in developing the Ask for Angela online training programme and supports the delivery of training materials and projects across the scheme for venues and organisations. Through this work, he helps drive the continued development of the campaign to create safer socialising spaces.
Projects Manager
Isaac Alcántara Heatlie
Helen supports the Ask for Angela scheme through the development of campaign materials and the delivery of training, helping to ensure the scheme is implemented effectively and successfully across venues and organisations. She also provides administrative support across the programme, responding to enquiries and supporting partners and stakeholders. Through her work, Helen helps move the campaign forward and supports its ongoing mission.
Business Support and Finance Officer
Helen Dawes
Projects and Marketing Officer
Grace Pollard
Grace is the projects and marketing officer at Ask for Angela CIC, supporting the delivery of training, resources and venue engagement. She ensures the initiative is implemented effectively across diverse sectors. Grace plays a key role in coordinating outreach, responding to enquiries and supporting partners, helping to ensure more individuals can access help quickly and discreetly when they need it most.