The British Retail Consortium urges action against rising abuse of retail staff during the festive season.
- Incidents of violence and abuse against retail workers have risen to 1,300 daily.
- Delivery drivers face increased threats, necessitating protective measures.
- The call for a standalone offense for assaulting retail workers gains urgency.
- Deliveroo campaigns for better protections for delivery riders under new legislation.
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) is sounding the alarm on the escalating abuse against retail workers, urging the public to take a firm stand against such behavior during the busy Christmas season. The recent crime survey paints a grim picture, revealing that retail workers face over 1,300 incidents of violence and abuse daily, including threats with weapons and racial slurs.
Delivery drivers, an essential part of the retail sector, are particularly vulnerable during this period of heightened activity. In response to increasing threats, many drivers are being equipped with personal safety devices and DNA spit testing kits to ensure their safety. These measures aim to alert authorities swiftly in case of any danger.
Retail voices are calling on the government to act swiftly to introduce a standalone offense for assaulting, threatening, or abusing a retail worker. Such a move is seen as vital to protect all individuals working in the consumer-facing retail industry. “While Christmas is an exceptionally busy time, any mistreatment of our colleagues will not be tolerated,” emphasized BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson.
The campaign for stronger legal protections extends to delivery drivers as well. Deliveroo has launched the ‘Right to Ride Safely’ initiative, pressing the government to include delivery riders under the proposed crime legislation. Camilla Kater, the platform’s senior vice president of rider care, stresses, “No one should feel unsafe whilst working, and abuse towards delivery riders should never be tolerated.”
A united stand is crucial to ensure a safe working environment for all retail and delivery workers this Christmas.
