Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Joy Allen is calling for MPs to support amendments which would protect shopworkers to the Police, Crime,Sentencing and Courts (PCSC) Bill when it returns to Parliament next week.
Ms Allen has pledged to take steps to tackle violence against shopworkers and will continue to campaign to end violence, threats andabuse against them.
Shopworkers have provided an essential service during the pandemic and sadly violence against them is not a new issue.
Ms Allen is calling for support to secure stronger legal protections for shopworkers and tougher penalties against those who assault or threaten them.
Durham PCC Joy Allen said: “It saddens me to hear the abuse shopworkers have received during the pandemic. Action is needed now to protect staff that provide this essential service to the public. Their role in our community is vital and must be valued and respected.
“Safer business is one of my six priority themes and as Police and Crime Commissioner I am committed to gaining a better understanding of the crimes faced by businesses and shopworkers to address business crime,threats and abuse.
“I support amendments which would protect shopworkers including harsher penalties for those who assault them. I will continue to support the Co-op’s Respect for ShopWorkers and USDAW campaigns to address violence, threats and abuse against shopworkers.”
The bill is set to be discussed on Monday 5th July.
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