GMB condemns 'horrifying' attacks on Asda workers in Clapham
Attacks on retail workers are on the increase Parliament must act now to toughen the law, says GMB Union
Attacks on retail workers are on the increase Parliament must act now to toughen the law, says GMB Union
GMB, the Asda union, have condemned a ‘horrifying’ attack on Asda workers in Clapham.
Footage on social media shows a group of assailants - including one dressed as Spider-Man – kicking and punching workers inside Clapham Junction Asda, London. [1]
Police have said five people have been arrested following the disorder.
GMB members were among those attacked and the union is offering any support required to members, with representatives and officers having been present at the store all day today.
Attacks on retail workers have risen throughout the pandemic [2] and GMB is calling for urgent legislation to protect them.
Mark Wilkinson, GMB Senior Organiser said:
“GMB cannot condemn strongly enough the actions of these people and we thank the police for their swift action in arriving to help protect our members from further harm.
“The video footage is absolutely horrifying and we are offering whatever support is necessary to any member who were affected during the incident.
“We take the health and safety of our members very seriously and will be working with store management to establish how this was allowed to happen and to ensure that safeguards are in place to prevent recurrence.
“Sadly, GMB is all too aware that whilst Clapham Junction is an extreme example, attacks on retail workers are on the increase. Parliament needs to act now to toughen the law.
“If you were affected in any way by the incident, please contact GMB straight away and we will ensure you get the support you need.”
ENDS
Media enquiries: GMB Press Office on 07958 156846 or at press.office@gmb.org.uk
Notes to Editors:
[2] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-57230169
