Labour Research November 2005

Health & Safety Matters

Jobcentre violence increases

Attacks on staff in jobcentres have risen by over 60% in the last year, the PCS civil service union has revealed, and reduced staffing is to blame.

"Due to job cuts, some jobcentres are now more like the Wild West as some of the most disadvantaged in society take their frustrations out on staff because they can't access the services they rely on," said PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka. "Staff suffering from assaults are low-paid, with many facing losing their jobs, and it is deeply disturbing that they are increasingly expected to put up with physical violence."