In this response document, the Government recognises that the abuse and physical violence faced by shop staff can have a significant impact on their health, not only physically but mentally and emotionally. Shops are the beating heart of our communities and neighbourhoods, and never more so than in recent months during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Home Office received a total of 800 main responses, although some of
these were informed by wider consultation, including with members of
particular organisations and other interested parties. It is estimated that a total of nearly 3,500 individuals, businesses and other organisations, such as charities and trade bodies, engaged in the Call for Evidence to some extent.
The response for the Call to Evidence fell under three themes:
- The level and extent of abuse faced by those working in the
sector. - A loss of trust in the response to these offences, by the police,
the wider Criminal Justice System and employers. - An inadequate response from the Criminal Justice System.
