Legal News

Shop workers’ trade union leader John Hannett has expressed deep concern that Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures show that shoplifting continues to rise, increasing by 8% during 2016 – contributing to a 21% increase over the last decade.

General Secretary of the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (Usdaw), Mr Hannett said that new figures in the ONS Crime Survey for England and Wales show the dangers that shop workers can face at work.

“In the course of their duties, shop workers can be put in real danger, suffering violence, threats and abuse,” said Mr Hannett.

“So it is always a real concern to our members when incidents of theft from shops are on the increase, because too often that can result in the shop workers being assaulted by the thief.

“We have long been concerned that theft from shops is not taken seriously and sometimes regarded as a victimless crime against large companies – but the reality is very different.

“Shop theft is a very serious issue that leads to verbal abuse, threats and physical violence against shop workers.

“Life on the frontline of retail can be pretty tough for many – we launched our Freedom From Fear Campaign in the face of growing concern among retail workers about violence, threats and abuse.

“The campaign works with retailers to promote respect and make workplaces safer for staff and customers alike – and we need the help of the police to deliver that aim. Retail crime remains too high and is a growing problem – there needs to be action to protect shop workers.

“Some violent criminals charged with assault do not get to court – and those who are can receive derisory sentences. In other cases, the offender isn’t even charged – and victims are left feeling that no one cares that they were assaulted.

“It is time for the government to act, by providing stiffer penalties for those who assault shop workers. We need the police to respond to incidents, investigate, and prosecute theft from shops. Retail staff are an important part of our communities – and that role must be valued, respected and protected.”

Usdaw is the UK's fourth biggest trade union with nearly 430,000 members. Membership has increased by more than 17% in the last five years and by nearly a third in the last decade.

Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemicals and other trades.

Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers

Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers can advise at any stage of a charge involving theft, robbery, robbery with violence, mugging or pick-pocketing.

There are Duncan Lewis offices across England and in Wales – and a Duncan Lewis criminal defence solicitor can usually reach a police station for interview under caution within an hour.

For expert legal advice on theft charges, call Duncan Lewis crime lawyers on 0333 772 0409.

For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis Solicitors 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607.