The British Retail Consortium (BRC) calls for public support to combat rising violence against retail workers during the Christmas season.
- Incidents of threats and assaults against retail staff have surged to 1,300 daily, necessitating immediate action.
- Delivery drivers face increased risks, prompting measures like personal safety devices and DNA spit testing kits.
- Retailers and the BRC are urging the government to establish a standalone offence for abusing retail workers.
- BRC highlights potential job losses and economic impacts due to recent National Insurance hikes.
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) is urging the public to stand together in opposing the rising violence and abuse against retail workers as the holiday season approaches. With incidents climbing to an alarming 1,300 a day, retail workers face threats including weapon assaults and racial slurs.
Particularly vulnerable are delivery drivers, who are expected to see increased workloads during the festive period. In response, protective measures like personal safety devices and DNA spit testing kits are being introduced to enhance their security.
To tackle this growing issue, the BRC and leading retailers are advocating for a swift implementation of a standalone offence targeting the assault, threat, or abuse of retail workers. BRC CEO Helen Dickinson emphasizes the necessity for legislative action, stating, “What our colleagues face on a daily basis is completely unacceptable. It is vital that the government sends a clear message and ensures the new standalone offence applies to all consumer-facing roles in retail.”
The urgency of this appeal is underscored by a recent letter from the BRC to Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, which, alongside warnings of “inevitable” job losses due to increased National Insurance, predicts store closures and price hikes. The letter serves as a stark reminder of the broader economic implications if these issues remain unaddressed.
Immediate and decisive action is needed to protect retail workers and ensure a safe and secure working environment this Christmas.
