Lyn Brown MP calls on customers to “keep your cool at Christmas” in support of the campaign by retail trade union Usdaw to cut down on the abuse and assaults suffered by shop staff during the Christmas shopping period.

Lyn Brown MP said: “I am shocked that Usdaw’s most recent survey shows that two thirds of shop staff have been abused in the last year and nearly 10% have suffered physical assault. A major cause is angry customers and reports of ‘trolley rage’ incidents are on the increase.  The shop staff that I met told me that Christmas is the time when they suffer most anger and abuse.

“Christmas shopping can be exciting but stressful. I urge all customers not to take out their frustration on shop staff who have to work hard, often for long hours at this time when shops are at their busiest. I was touched by the testimony of shopworkers who say that verbal abuse from customers is very hurtful and can leave staff upset and depressed.

“Both verbal abuse and threats are forms of anti-social behaviour and I am encouraging retailers and police in West Ham to work together to make sure that the Government’s anti-social behaviour measures are used where necessary to protect shop staff.”

John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary said, “Shopworkers in West Ham are delighted to have the support of Lyn Brown MP for our campaign. Too many customers seem to forget that shop staff have feelings too, and treat them without any respect.

“Christmas can be a very stressful time, but we are calling on all customers to think twice before they abuse staff, and by staying calm they will help retailers to give them a better service.  Hopefully, with the high profile support of Lyn Brown MP, shoppers and staff in West Ham, we can all enjoy Christmas shopping.”