London Park Keepers subjected to vile abuse from public just for trying to enforce social distancing
The two incidents took place in Morden Park, where Merton Council has outsourced park operatives to private contractor ID Verde
Two London park keepers have been subject to vile abuse just for trying to enforce social distancing, GMB union says
The two incidents took place in Morden Park, where Merton Council has outsourced park operatives to private contractor ID Verde.
In the first incident an operative was told he and his family should ‘go and die’ as he cordoned off gym equipment in a park. His abuser then followed him to his next job and hurled racist insults at him.
Later the same day a woman member of staff, wearing her ID Verde uniform, was attacked by a group of youths. She was pushed off her bike, spat at and coughed over. She is understandably very shocked and upset by this assault.
Both incidents have been reported to the police.
ID Verde has now asked GMB members to take photos of people continuing to use park equipment which has been closed due to the Government's rules on social distancing – this makes the workers even more of a target.
Sheila Berry, GMB Regional Organiser, said: “We are very angry this has happened to two hardworking members of staff.
“But even more shocking is the fact we’ve had no action at all from either Merton Council or ID Verde - apart from a holding email from both.
“GMB is now insists the council closes the parks to protect workers. It’s now time for Merton to act before someone is seriously hurt.”
Media enquiries: Sheila Berry at sheila.berry@gmb.org.uk or 07710591388 or GMB Press Office on 07958 156846 or at press.office@gmb.org.uk
