worker abuse

reporting processes; counselling for staff members affected by harassment; and a confidential helpline for simplified reporting of incidents.

“This comes in addition to other safety mechanisms such as enhanced CCTV coverage across stores, security staff at identified locations and a series of robbery prevention measures,” said the spokesperson.

One shopping centre in Dublin has introduced anti-social behaviour orders in alliance with the Gardaí, according to Jennings. Arnold Dillon noted that some shops are investing in new security approaches, such as engaging third party security providers, and working on wellness programmes to provide training and support staff that experience harassment.

“Central to addressing some of the serious issues around harassment is a closer and collaborative relationship between the Gardaí and the retail sector,” said the Retail Ireland Director. “We keep an ongoing contact with the Gardaí at a sector level, but in addition it also means good relationships on the ground with local Gardaí.”

Ultimately, retailers believe, the onus falls on customers to treat retail workers with decency and respect. Circle K, as part of their anti-harassment measures, introduced “customer facing awareness campaigns and signage in stations”. Mandate called on other retailers to introduce signage that encourages good behaviour. “When you enter a shop, this is a workplace and everybody here is entitled to have a healthy and safe working environment,” said Light

“At a basic level, customers have a role to play: to be kind and understand the pressures retail workers are under,” said Dillon. “Also, to make sure that if people are having a bad day or are in a bad mood, they don’t take that out on customer service workers.”

Retailers believe that something must be done, and done fast. The retail sector employs over 300,000 people. According to Circle K’s report, 249,000 people within this workforce are experiencing harassment. “It’s a significant challenge for the industry,” noted Dillon. “These issues make it a less attractive job to work in at a time when the industry faces labour shortages. It’s another added challenge when it comes to attracting and retaining staff.”