“Treating retail workers with kindness during the festive trading period” – Chris Kane Tables Early Day Motion

Chris Kane MP has tabled Early Day Motion (EDM) 484 which supports the joint campaign by the Scottish Retail Consortium and Usdaw urging Scots to be kind, considerate and respectful to retail workers and fellow customers when shopping this Christmas.

EDM 484: “That this House welcomes the press and social media campaign from the Scottish Retail Consortium and Usdaw which is urging Scots to be kind, considerate and respectful to retail workers and fellow customers when shopping this Christmas; notes that the festive period can be an especially complex and challenging time for retail businesses with colleagues working hard to keep shelves stocked and products delivered; understands that abuse towards those working in customer service has climbed with figures from Usdaw showing over two thirds of retail staff have experienced verbal abuse in the past twelve months; affirms that any mistreatment of colleagues in stores is wholly unacceptable and should not be tolerated; and commends this responsible and positive initiative from employers and trade unions for a little Christmas kindness and courtesy from Scots so that we can all enjoy shopping over the festive period and in turn support local jobs and the vibrancy of our town and city centre destinations.”

Paddy Lillis – Usdaw general secretary says: “Retail workers deserve far more respect than they receive. It is shocking that over two-thirds of our members are suffering abuse from customers, with far too many experiencing threats and violence. Abuse is not a part of the job and much more needs to be done to protect retail workers. We were delighted to have won the campaign for protection of workers law in the Scottish Parliament, but that is the beginning, not the end. We have to ensure that the legislation is central to tackle a growing wave of retail crime and Usdaw looks forward to working with employers and Police Scotland to make that happen.

Chris Kane added: “I am delighted to support this campaign. Stirling and Strathallan has a vibrant retail sector, with employees at its heart. Promoting kindness and respect should be a priority throughout the year, but it is especially important during such a busy period. I hope this motion will go some way to making a positive difference for those working in retail.”