Usdaw urges consumers to follow lockdown rules and respect shopworkers

The union is highlighting five simple steps to encourage considerate shopping:

1. Shop for essentials only and alone if possible.
2. Queue patiently and maintain social distancing.
3. Follow instructions inside and outside shops.
4. Observe all necessary hygiene measures and pay by card if you can.
5. Be respectful to shop staff and other customers.

Paddy Lillis, Usdaw general secretary, said: “Regrettably the first lockdown saw instances of abuse towards shopworkers double and we are absolutely clear that ‘abuse is not part of the job’. Retail staff are key workers delivering essential services and that role must be valued and respected. We are absolutely clear that it is not the responsibility of shopworkers to enforce the rules, it is up to the public to follow them.

“With infections rising we understand why the government is imposing new restrictions, but customers need to play their part. They should wear a face-covering in store, observe social distancing, shop alone if possible, only buy essential items, and pay by card if they can. It is important that we all work together in these difficult times to help the country through this appalling pandemic.”

Earlier grocery sector charity, GroceryAid. tweeted: “Since the outbreak of Covid-19 there has been a huge rise in verbal and physical abuse within customer-facing roles. Some of our colleagues have gone through unimaginable trauma in the workplace. We are here to help our grocery colleagues with immediate in the moment support.”