To crack down on abuse and violence against shop workers, the Home Secretary, Priti Patel has published a response to call for evidence on the issue. The Home Office aims at improving support for victims and ensuring perpetrators face justice.
One of the major steps involves the National Retail Crime Steering Group (NRCSG), where a best practice guide to support staff in reporting these crimes will be compiled. The guide also covers making use of existing laws, improving data sharing between businesses and the police.
Besides this, the Crime and Policing Minister will be writing to the PCCs and Chief Constables, underlining the impetus of working closely such that the issues are tackled swiftly. It also presses on the fact that the theft of goods valued up to £200 from a shop should be prosecuted as a criminal offence.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “As the daughter of shopkeepers, I know what a vital role they play within our communities and just how tirelessly they have worked during the coronavirus pandemic. I will not tolerate violence and abuse against any shop worker and it’s right that those who commit these crimes must be caught and punished.”
