// 1/2 of shopworkers have faced abuse or anti-social behaviour due to the 10pm curfew on hospitality venues
// 1/4 said overcrowding had made social distancing difficult in shops
// Usdaw says its survey shows that the curfew has created problems for shopworkers
Around half of retail shopworkers have suffered abuse and anti-social behaviour as a result of the government-imposed 10pm curfew on pubs, bars and restaurants, according to a study.
A survey of 1000 members of Usdaw found that many had been impacted by people buying alcohol in shops after leaving hospitality venues.
A quarter said overcrowding had made social distancing difficult in shops and a similar number had faced abuse.
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One worker told the union it was “mayhem” after 10pm, adding: “Had nearly 40 people trying to get into our store at once.”
Another said: “Loads of people come in after 10pm to buy a load of booze to continue drinking. Most aren’t wearing masks cause they’re drunk.
“The other people who come in after 10pm are either shoplifters or people who think Covid is a hoax.”
Usdaw general secretary Paddy Lillis said the study shows again that some people have responded to the pandemic by abusing shop workers.
“Usdaw supports measures that restrict transmission of Covid-19, but that will not be achieved by filling shops with late-night revellers, putting our members’ safety at risk,” he said.
“Sale of alcohol has always been a major flashpoint for violence, threats and abuse against shop workers, whether it’s age-identification or refusing a sale to someone who is already drunk, both legal requirements.
“This survey shows that the 10pm curfew has created additional problems for a significant number of shopworkers.
“We need the government, local authorities and the police to be aware of these triggers for anti-social behaviour and work with retailers to tackle the problem.”
with PA Wires
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