The union has strongly criticized what they refer to as ‘DIY policing,’ deeming it both hazardous and irresponsible.
According to a report from Usdaw, Chris Philp MP (Con, Croydon South) addressed Tory activists at a meeting organized by the think-tank Policy Exchange, stating that “the wider public, including shop staff and security guards, do have the power of citizen’s arrest, and where it’s safe to do so, I would encourage that to be used.”
This statement comes in light of concerning evidence pointing to an alarming surge in retail crime. The latest crime figures obtained from the police indicate a 25% increase in shoplifting incidents within the past twelve months. Additionally, Usdaw’s annual survey discovered that three-quarters of shop workers experienced abuse, threats, or assaults, with a third of these incidents being linked to theft. Even more disconcerting, a Freedom of Information request revealed that the police neglected to respond to 71% of the reported serious retail crimes, as disclosed by Co-op Food.
In response to this situation, Paddy Lillis, Usdaw General Secretary, expressed concerns over the concept of ‘DIY policing,’ deeming it dangerous and irresponsible. Lillis stated the need for a reconsideration of the strategy by the Minister, emphasizing the importance of investing in additional police presence on the streets. Lillis further called for the introduction of a standalone offense for assaulting a shop worker, similar to the legislation established in Scotland.
Lillis added, “This week, we partnered with retail employers in urging action to address the escalating issue of retail crime. However, shifting the responsibility to shop workers and shoppers is certainly not the answer.”
Usdaw’s clear advice to its members is to refrain from intervening or attempting to detain a shoplifter, as their primary concern should be their own safety. Retail employers that Usdaw collaborates with also provide the same guidance to their staff. Therefore, the Minister’s suggestion that staff should assume the role of the police demonstrates a fundamental lack of understanding.
Furthermore, Lillis expressed deep alarm over the Minister’s suggestion that the public should perform citizen’s arrests within stores. Usdaw members have personally suffered from public attempts to enforce Covid rules, resulting in fights erupting in aisles and shop workers mediating arguments between customers. The union firmly opposes any regression to such circumstances.
Lillis emphasized that dealing with recurring and persistent shoplifters extends beyond the act of theft, contributing to issues such as anxiety, fear, and physical harm to retail workers. To ensure the protection that shop workers deserve, improved coordination and collaboration are vital among the government, retail employers, police, and the courts.
It is crucial to establish these partnerships to safeguard shop workers and create an environment where they can carry out their duties without fear or harm.