Shopworkers’ union launches petition to protect retail staff

Usdaw has recorded a sharp increase in the number of cases of abuse towards shopworkers during the coronavirus pandemic.

The trade union’s survey found that on average UK shopworkers face verbal abuse, threats or assaults every fortnight in 2019, but that figure doubled to every week during the lockdown period.

The petition calls on the House of Commons to enact legislation that protects retail workers, including making the abuse a specific offence that carries a penalty, which is serious enough to act as a deterrent.

It includes testimonials from shopworkers who state that they have been subject to “constant abuse” and their jobs are now “emotionally draining”.

Lillis said: “We are appalled that violence, threats and abuse have doubled during this national emergency.

“At a time when we should all be working together to get through this crisis, it is a national disgrace that people working to keep food on the shelves for their local communities are being abused and assaulted.

“Further action is required and that is why we have launched this petition today. Our message is clear: abuse is not part of the job.

“Life on the front line of retail is normally pretty tough for many shopworkers and has become much worse during the coronavirus emergency.

“Shopworkers are on the front line of feeding the country, providing an essential service in very difficult circumstances, working long hours in busy stores, facing abuse from customers and, of course, concerned that they may become infected with Covid-19.

“In light of the unacceptable increase in abuse of shopworkers, there needs to be urgent action to help protect staff. I urge the government not to dismiss my petition, but to listen to the voices of shopworkers and legislate for stiffer penalties for those who assault workers.

“They have talked about zero tolerance, but that means very little if it is not backed up by strong actions.

“Retail staff have a crucial role in our communities and that role must be valued and respected; they deserve the protection of the law.”