A recent survey highlights growing safety concerns among retail workers, emphasizing a surge in violent and abusive encounters that influence job retention.
- Nearly half of retail staff fear for their safety, according to a survey by the Retail Trust involving 1,200 workers.
- One-third of retail employees encounter weekly abuse, with 98% experiencing verbal assaults and a concerning percentage facing physical threats.
- A significant 48% feel unsupported by employers, with 56% of these contemplating resignation due to inadequate safety measures.
- The situation is exacerbated by incidents related to shoplifting and a reported decline in work conditions over the past two years.
Nearly half of retail staff fear for their safety, according to a survey conducted by the Retail Trust. This survey, involving 1,200 workers, reveals a distressing increase in the frequency of violent and abusive incidents within the UK retail sector. Notably, 47% of staff expressed apprehensions regarding their safety at work.
The data is further compounded by one-third of retail employees reporting weekly abuse from customers. The findings highlight that a staggering 80% of shop workers and 90% of store managers have faced abusive incidents. Among these, 98% have been verbally abused, 33% threatened with violence, 14% physically assaulted, and 10% spat upon.
Almost half of the respondents reported insufficient support from their employers. This lack of support correlates with a rise in job dissatisfaction, with 56% contemplating leaving their positions. Moreover, 73% of those feeling unsupported reported feeling unsafe regularly, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced protective measures.
The situation has deteriorated notably in the past two years. According to the survey, 55% of workers believe the environment has worsened recently, with 63% experiencing increased stress and anxiety levels. These conditions correlate strongly with the prevalence of violent encounters, particularly those associated with shoplifting-related confrontations.
In response to these alarming findings, the Retail Trust has initiated free skills training sessions aimed at equipping retail staff to handle challenging situations, particularly during high-pressure periods like the festive shopping season. This initiative, part of their ‘respect retail’ campaign, encourages a zero-tolerance stance towards abuse, with support from leading industry players.
The Retail Trust’s survey reveals a crucial need for improved safety measures and support systems in the retail sector to ensure worker well-being.
