Shopworkers’ union Usdaw is calling on retail employers to work with local police to crack down on theft from shops.
The union is recommending that shop owners take on board new guidance from the Government, which suggests ways in which local CDRPs (Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships) and neighbourhood police can create partnerships with retail employers to reduce crime.
The guidance gives examples of good practice, including Co-ops in North Wales encouraging police to take their tea breaks in the local stores. It aims to overcome the lack of knowledge about CDRPs and neighbourhood policing and to dispel the view that most retail crime is not worth reporting because the police are not interested.
John Hannett, Usdaw general secretary, commented: “This new guidance supports our Freedom From Fear campaign, aiming to reduce violence against shopworkers. Much violence that occurs in stores is a result of shopworkers challenging people committing theft. If we can cut theft in the first place, the workers will be less at risk.
“Shop theft isn’t victimless. The police realise this and are looking at ways to address the issue. But they need retail employers to work with them, which is why we are urging store managers to look at this guidance and create working partnerships with their local force.”
