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Arena Magazine 2005 Issue 3 |
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Show your Respect
The Freedom From Fear campaign, which aims to protect retail staff from violence and abuse, will hit the headlines again next month as Usdaw hosts its annual Respect for Shopworkers Day on Wednesday July 13. The campaign, now in its third year, has attracted support from workers, companies, MPs, and the shopping public and will once again see hundreds of Usdaw members making their mark in the workplace.
The Freedom From Fear campaign remains one of Usdaw's most successful initiatives and delegates at this year's ADM were keen for it to continue.
Nerys Griffiths Suarez from North West Retail Co-op said Usdaw owed it to its members to do all it could to reduce risks and eradicate attacks. "Employers should provide more counselling, support and financial help for the victims of violence and abuse," she said.
Colin Marriott from East London Retail, and a prominent figure in the campaign, congratulated the union for all of its hard work. "This campaign really caught our members' imagination," he said. "It was clear and easy to understand and people who work in retail could identify with it immediately. We need to take it beyond the workplace."
Capital Retail's Ermelita Dela Cruz said low staffing levels were often partially to blame. "Everybody is talking about this campaign," she said. "I'm afraid at work. There is no security guard. Often the customers are abusive and head office doesn't listen to us."
Anne Meacock of Swansea told conference of how her friend was assaulted after leaving work. "She suffered a terrible beating," she said. "The only positive angle was that she was a union member whose case was fought through the criminal injuries system and Sarah, my friend, received compensation."
General secretary John Hannett was pleased delegates wanted to keep the campaign moving. "We've already laid down good foundations with some employers, local authorities and the police and we're determined to make more progress."
Stand up for Freedom
You can organise your own day of action on or around July 13 by contacting your local rep or union office.
In the past members have set up stalls in shops and high streets to help raise awareness of the abuse and violence retail staff face. Campaign materials are available from central office.
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