There’s no excuse for verbal abuse

Usdaw campaigners handed out red cards to remind shoppers that verbal abuse will not be tolerated in the UK’s shops and supermarkets. The football-themed event was the focus for the union’s third annual national Respect for Shopworkers Day and saw activists set up publicity stalls with petitions, promotional whistles, balloons and campaign leaflets.

The event, part of the Freedom From Fear campaign, was held on July 12 and was an overwhelming success. It was a fun day with a special London launch and entertainment provided by professional freestyle football jugglers. It was an eye-catching event but it carried a serious message.

"Our research has found that at least half a million shopworkers are verbally abused every working day," said general secretary John Hannett. "Most shoppers would never think of physically assaulting a shopworker, but many seem to think it is alright to shout and scream abuse if something isn't right in store.

"Last year verbal abuse of shop staff shot up by an alarming 35 per cent so our members are saying enough is enough and that they will no longer tolerate such vile treatment as part of their daily working lives.

"Football referees can use a red card to send off players who verbally abuse them so we had our own Usdaw red card to spread the message that abusive customers can be removed from stores or even prosecuted.

"We have all heard of some of the terrifying incidents of physical abuse from being stabbed, hit with iron bars and being threatened with dirty syringes during the last year. Thankfully these are the exception rather than the rule. But remember also, vicious verbal abuse day after day has its own damaging affect resulting in many shopworkers quitting their jobs.

"Our simple message is that retail workers are not verbal punchbags. There is no excuse for shoppers who take their frustrations out on innocent shopworkers," added John Hannett.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority - CICA

• Been a victim of a crime of violence, and either physically or psychologically injured as a result.
• Reported the incident personally to the police as soon as possible after it happened.
• Been injured seriously enough to qualify for at least the minimum award.
• Sent off your application within two years from the date of the incident.

If you have been a victim of crime, or for more information, speak to your union rep or your local Usdaw office or call the national helpline on 0845 6060640.

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© 2003 (USDAW) Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers
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Last Modified: Tuesday, 10-Apr-2007 18:35:46 EST
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