 |
Arena Magazine 2006 Issue 4 Autumn Arena |
 |
Freedom from fear
Shop assistant Lauren Fowler, 19, was too frightened to return to work after an armed robbery left her shaken and traumatised. That’s why she was backing Usdaw’s Respect for Shopworkers Day held on July 12.
"With the help of my rep I'm back working in retail but now in a large supermarket and I feel much safer in my job," said Lauren. "The Respect Day raises awareness and helps make work safer for staff everywhere."
Lauren was attacked last January when she was working a night shift at the Co-op store in Shiregreen, Sheffield. "I was on the checkout when three men burst in shouting and screaming," said Lauren. "One of them was waving a sword around. He jumped over the counter and shouted at me to open the till. By the time I'd found the keys my hands were shaking so much I couldn't open it.
"The robbers fled when a customer came into the store. It was the most terrifying experience I've ever had. It left me mentally and physically exhausted. The police were called and I spent a couple of hours completing a statement."
Lauren contacted family friend Joanne Whyman, a rep at the local Morrisons store, who advised her to contact Usdaw. The union submitted a claim with the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) on her behalf. "Usdaw took care of everything. The support I had was very reassuring and a great relief. "I received £1,000 from the CICA, although it was never about the money. No one should have to go through such an ordeal when they are just trying to do their job. I think people who work in small shops are seen as an easy target. I'm fully behind Usdaw's Freedom From Fear campaign."
For more information on the Freedom From Fear campaign visit www.usdaw.org.uk/campaigns
 Printer Friendly Page  Email to a Friend
|
