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USDAW

British UNI Commerce affiliate Usdaw has welcomed the UK Government’s plans, outlined in the Queen’s Speech when opening Parliament, which aim to tackle crime and refocus the criminal justice system placing greater emphasis on the victims of crime.

The new approach ties in with Usdaw’s Freedom from Fear campaign which has highlighted the dangers faced by shopworkers from violent robbers and shoplifters; and calls for action from employers, the police, local authorities and government to protect shop staff.

British commerce trade union USDAW is acting strongly to make jobs safer for their members. Growing violence against commercial workers is a great common concern for the social partners and the UK government.

Usdaw deputy general secretary John Hannett said: “More and more shopworkers are the victims of violence and abuse at work, mainly from shoplifters.

“Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. It is often committed by young frequent offenders, many of whom are also involved in the anti-social behaviour problems that plague communities across Britain.

“We will be seeking a bigger commitment from the Government on tackling retail crime; improving the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme for those shopworkers who are victims of violence, and more appropriate sentencing aimed at stopping retail criminals re-offending.”

• Last year around 20,000 shopworkers were physically assaulted and an additional 30,000 threatened or verbally abused.