Catherine McKinnell MP has renewed her support for Usdaw’s now annual campaign to protect shopworkers from violence, threats and abuse in the often heated run-up to Christmas.
As part of the retail union’s longstanding Freedom From Fear campaign – which seeks to prevent violence, threats and abuse directed at retail staff – Usdaw members are highlighting the problems they can face during Respect for Shopworkers Week, which this year runs from 14th-20th November.
Joining forces with Usdaw members ahead of Respect for Shopworkers Week, the Newcastle North MP said:
‘We all know how stressful the busy Christmas shopping period can be, but far too often retail staff are confronted with violence, threats and abuse whilst doing their job and serving the public.
‘I am really proud to renew my support for Usdaw’s work in raising awareness of this problem, and their campaign to ensure shopworkers are provided with the support they need.
‘Respect for Shopworkers Week sends out a clear message that abusing or assaulting workers is totally unacceptable – and I would urge people to ‘keep their cool’ during this period.’
John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary, said:
‘We are grateful to Catherine for supporting our campaign to keep our members safe at work.
‘Often, in the course of their duties, shopworkers are expected to deal with tense and difficult situations. Unfortunately these can escalate to verbal abuse and assault. Over 300 shopworkers are assaulted every day and it is time to say enough is enough.
‘Parliament has placed the legal obligation on shopworkers to enforce the law in relation to age restricted sales and Parliament must also ensure that the law also protects shopworkers who are doing their job. Politicians and members of the public must work together to ensure that shopworkers get the respect they deserve.’