The Protection of Workers (Retail) Act, enacted in August 2021, has been a significant development in ensuring the safety and security of workers in the retail sector. With the support of SGF (Scottish Grocers Federation), Daniel Johnson MSP delivered this crucial legislation.
According to the latest figures provided by Police Scotland, the act has already been utilized a staggering 7,056 times to report incidents of abuse or assault specifically targeting retail staff and retailers. These figures cover a period up to July 2, 2023.
In an effort to promote transparency and accountability, SGF has reached out to the Scottish government, the Lord Advocate, and the Crown Office & Procurator Fiscal Service, urging them to make public the statistics pertaining to referrals and convictions related to this act.
Dr Pete Cheema OBE, the esteemed chief executive of SGF, emphasizes the gravity of retail crime and shop theft for convenience stores and their members. It is unacceptable for individuals to endure threats, abuse, and potential violence when they arrive at work.
Dr Pete Cheema OBE
Reports of escalating incidents of shoplifting and anti-social behavior aimed at staff within stores are being received from numerous sources. These crimes do not solely impact the well-being of staff and businesses; they also have wider implications for families and the entire community.
While we appreciate the data on the POW Act provided by Police Scotland, it is imperative for us to have insights into the number of cases being successfully prosecuted. This knowledge would encourage more retailers to report crimes occurring daily in their stores and could act as a deterrent for potential perpetrators.
In its annual Scottish Retail Crime Report, SGF highlights that 100% of respondents experience shop theft on a daily basis, while all of them face regular incidents of abuse, violence, or Hate Crime.
In addition, SGF has approached the Scottish government with the proposal to renew their joint campaign, ‘Don’t Put Up With It,’ which was initially launched in collaboration with Crime Stoppers.