During a Westminster Hall debate on the Protection of Retail Workers, led by Matt Vickers MP, there was agreement from MPs that more action is needed to protect shopworkers.

The debate was held in response to the petition Protect Retail Workers from Abuse, Threats and Violence which received over 104,000 signatures before it closed on 24th January 2021.

Speaking in the debate, Alex Norris MP referencing ACS’ Crime Report 2021, said: “According to the Association of Convenience Stores, there have been 40,000 violent incidents in the past year, with one in five resulting in injury. On top of that, there are a staggering 1.2 million incidents of abuse, and nearly nine out of every 10 shop workers have been affected. They are key workers, doing their job, keeping us fed and watered, and that is what they have to face daily.”

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “Violence and abuse has a significant impact on retailers and shopworkers and these incidents are completely unacceptable. Retailers are committed to reporting these incidents but sadly they are often frustrated the response of the police and the wider justice system.

“We need the Government to take urgent action to protect shopworkers and to send the clear message that violent and abusive behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

ACS recently gave oral evidence to the Home Affairs Select Committee on the Government’s and policing response to incidents of violence and abuse of shopworkers, calling for urgent action to protect retail workers.

ACS has developed a package of guidance for retailers which includes information on how to report incidents of violence and abuse when they occur. The guidance is available here.