Violence and abuse against retail staff still a problem, says Usdaw
Shopworkers union Usdaw has said that violence, threats and abuse against shopworkers is still a big problem.
The results of Usdaw’s Freedom From Fear survey of over 5,000 UK retail staff show that on average 241 shopworkers were assaulted every day in the last twelve months. The survey also reveals that 33% of shopworkers were threatened by customers and over half were verbally abused.
John Hannett, Usdaw general secretary, said: “We have released our survey results on the same day that the British Retail Consortium has published their Retail Crime Survey. Both show the levels of offences have remained pretty steady from last year, which is little comfort for our members on the receiving end of violence and abuse. A worrying aspect of the BRC report is the increase in the value of shop theft, because all too often these incidents can lead to the criminal assaulting or abusing shop staff.
“Both surveys show that retail crime remains too high and there needs to be action to protect shopworkers. On four occasions, in the current Parliament, the Government has defeated amendments to their own legislation that would have provided stiffer penalties for those who assault shopworkers.
“It is time for the Government to act. Crime in shops remains steady and is not coming down in line with the overall levels crime. Retail staff have a crucial role in our communities and that role must be valued and respected.”
