Abuse against shopworkers doubles during pandemic

Frontline shopworkers are suffering from shocking levels of abuse that have doubled since the start of the coronavirus crisis, according to a survey by retail union Usdaw.

The survey of more than 7,350 mainly essential workers in shops, distribution warehouses, road transport and delivery services looked at the impact of coronavirus in the workplace. It also found nearly 70% are experiencing anxiety and have raised concerns with their employer.

It found the average shopworker has been assaulted, threatened or abused every 6.5 days, with one in six facing abuse on every shift they work. Almost 200 had been physically assaulted since the start of the outbreak.

Nearly a third (29%) of respondents reported Covid-19 related absences from work due to illness, self-isolating or shielding. Usdaw said the rate of sickness absence was nearly five times higher since the start of the outbreak. And, because levels of statutory sick pay (SSP) are so low, and many retail workers do not earn enough to qualify for it, there is a real danger that staff who should be staying at home will continue to work, putting themselves and the public at risk.

Usdaw is calling for a new deal for workers that includes respect for shopworkers, with new legislation providing a standalone offence of abusing, threatening or assaulting a public-facing worker; improved sick pay; and a real voice at work, with trade unions recognised in the workplace.

http://www.usdaw.org.uk/CMSPages/GetFile.aspx?guid=575d4419-a739-432b-ab54-10e84ad56e26