New probe into violence and abuse against store staff

The Home Affairs Committee has also launched a public survey to give people who have experienced these incidents the opportunity to explain what happened after an incident was reported.

A 2019 survey by the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) found 83% of workers had been subject to some form of verbal abuse; and a survey from the Usdaw trade union found the average shopworker was assaulted, threatened or abused once a week.

There are also concerns that the number of incidents has increased during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Figures from the ACS Covid Impact Survey conducted during the first lockdown showed that 40% of retailers had experienced an increase in violence and abuse since the start of the pandemic.

The inquiry will examine barriers to the reporting of incidents of violence or abuse and look at how satisfied victims are with the action taken by police and employers after an incident is reported.

It will also explore whether there should be a new law making assaults against retail workers an ‘aggravated’ offence, and whether the government has taken adequate action on this issue following its 2019 call for evidence.

Chair of the Home Affairs Committee, Yvette Cooper MP, said: ““The increase in reported attacks and abuse against shop workers during the Covid-19 pandemic is appalling and unacceptable.

“No one should feel unsafe at their place of work and there are no circumstances where such behaviour should be tolerated.

“The crisis has shown how important shopworkers are as key workers – keeping vital services going during difficult times.

“The Home Affairs Committee has launched this new inquiry into crimes against shop workers.

“We want to hear experiences of retail workers and find out if they are getting the support they need from their employers and the police.

“We will also look at what changes in policy or the law could help reduce incidents of violence against retail workers and remove barriers to them seeking justice.

“We want to hear from those who have been directly affected by these issues. If you or your colleagues have experienced violence or felt threatened at work, please take part in our online survey.”

All responses will be completely confidential and will help the committee make recommendations about what more can be done to support retail workers.

The ACS welcomed news of the inquiry. Chief executive James Lowman said: “Violent and abusive incidents are never acceptable and can have a devastating and long-lasting impact on the individuals, businesses and communities involved.

“Local shops have been on the front line, working tirelessly to feed and support their communities, but sadly many stores have seen an increase in violent and abusive behaviour as we implement rules on face coverings and social distancing.

“We are pleased the Home Affairs Committee has recognised the importance of addressing violence and abuse against shopworkers and we are encouraging retailers and their store colleagues to share their experiences through the public survey to ensure that their voices are heard.”

The survey is open until Friday 15 January.

The NFRN trade body welcomed the news. National president Stuart Reddish said: “Violence is an unacceptable part of daily life for too many independent retailers. I get calls from hundreds of members who are crime victims.

“The impact of retail crime can be devastating and long-lasting – not just in terms of physical injuries, but on anxiety and stress too.

“The NFRN welcomes this inquiry and we look forward to working with the Home Affairs Committee.”

Shop workers’ trade union Usdaw also welcomed news of the probe by MPs.

General secretary Paddy Lillis said: “This new select committee inquiry, which we called for, is a very welcome opportunity to evidence the need for a ‘protection of shop workers’ law.

“It has been a terrible year for our members, with incidents of abuse doubling during the pandemic. Retail workers, their friends, family and loved ones, are saying loud and clear that enough is enough, abuse should never be just a part of the job.”

News of the inquiry followed yesterday’s announcement that Usdaw has secured 100,000 signatures on a ‘protect shop workers’ petition that should now trigger a parliamentary debate.

Lillis said: “We were deeply disappointed by the government’s initial response to the petition, offering little more than sympathy.

“Unfortunately, they also objected to the Alex Norris’ protection of shop workers bill in the House of Commons. So we are now looking for MPs to get behind retail staff, who are key workers providing essential services, and help turn around the government’s opposition.

“Usdaw will respond to this ‘call for evidence’ and encourage our members on the frontline of retail to participate in the survey. Shop workers have a crucial role in our communities and that role must be valued and respected; they deserve the protection of the law.

“This is turning into a good week for our members, in terms of tackling the appalling violence, threats and abuse that they all too often suffer.”