'Scared to go to work': Shop assistant tells of customer abuse (opens original article in a new tab)

A shop worker shared her experience of abuse by a customer, leading to a parliamentary debate on tackling violence against retail workers.

• A shop worker described being subjected to racial remarks and threats by a customer, leaving her terrified and scared to go to work.
• MPs from different parties shared examples of abuse against retail workers during a Westminster Hall debate.
• The 2026 Crime and Policing Act created a standalone offence for assaulting retail workers, with penalties including up to six months in prison.