New Offence for Assaulting Shopworkers in Government U-Turn

This decision marks a crucial step in recognising and addressing the escalating issue of violence and abuse faced by retail employees across the country.

Initially met with scepticism, the government's move comes after sustained pressure from various stakeholders, including trade unions, retail organisations, and frontline retail workers themselves. The decision represents a victory for those advocating for the protection of shopworkers, who have long endured verbal harassment, physical assaults, and other forms of aggression while simply carrying out their duties.

Changes to the Criminal Justice Bill

The new offence is set to be included in the Criminal Justice Bill that is currently going through Parliament.

Rishi Sunak said: "I am sending a message to those criminals - whether they are serious organised criminal gangs, repeat offenders or opportunistic thieves - who think they can get away with stealing from these local businesses or abusing shopworkers, enough is enough.

"Our local shops are the lifeblood of our communities, and they must be free to trade without the threat of crime or abuse."

What are the penalties for those found guilty of assaulting a shopworker?

Under the proposed legislation, individuals found guilty of assaulting retail staff could face stiffer penalties, reflecting the seriousness of the offence; the new offence will carry a maximum sentence of six months imprisonment or an unlimited fine. Repeat offenders, including consistent shoplifters, could also be forced to wear an electronic tag. This shift sends a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable for their actions.

Why are stricter penalties needed for retail worker abuse?

With the British Retail Consortium announcing that violent and abusive incidents have increased by 50% between 2021/22 and 2022/23, the significance of this announcement cannot be overstated. It not only acknowledges the vital role played by shopworkers in our communities but also underscores the need to safeguard their well-being and ensure they can perform their jobs without fear of harm.

Retail environments can often be challenging, with employees frequently encountering irate customers, thieves, and other volatile situations. By establishing a specific offence for assaulting shopworkers, the government is helping to address these risks and foster a safer working environment.

Are legislative changes enough to tackle shopworker abuse?

However, legislative changes alone are not sufficient to tackle the issue comprehensively. Practical measures must also be implemented to enhance the safety and security of shopworkers on the ground. This is where solutions like SoloProtect's lone worker safety solutions come into play.

SoloProtect offers a range of innovative devices and apps designed to protect workers across various industries, including retail. For shopworkers, these devices serve as invaluable tools for summoning assistance in emergencies and recording crucial audio evidence. Audio recordings captured by SoloProtect’s safety devices and apps can be instrumental in supporting prosecutions. In cases of assault or harassment, these recordings offer a clear and objective account of events, helping authorities to identify perpetrators and secure convictions.

By embracing technology-driven solutions like SoloProtect's lone worker safety devices, retailers can demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their employees while also bolstering their security measures and supporting their loss prevention strategies. Investing in such tools not only mitigates risks but also reinforces the message that the safety and welfare of frontline workers are paramount.

A final note ...

The government's decision to create a separate offence for assaulting shopworkers represents a significant milestone in addressing workplace violence and abuse. Coupled with practical solutions like SoloProtect's lone worker safety devices, it signals a concerted effort to prioritise the safety and security of those who serve on the front lines of our retail sector. As we move forward, we must continue to champion initiatives that protect and empower workers in all industries, ensuring they can carry out their vital roles with confidence and dignity.

Related articles:

• Lone Worker Protection for Retail Workers
• 8 Reasons Why Personal Safety Devices Should be Part of Your Retail Loss Prevention Strategy

Retail case studies:

• Roadchef
• John Lewis
• Domino's
• McColl's