Amidst the upcoming General Election, Usdaw, the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers, is advocating for comprehensive reforms to protect retail workers across the UK.
- Usdaw proposes the introduction of specific legislation to address the abuse and assault of shopworkers, mirroring existing laws in Scotland.
- The union highlights the necessity of reforming business rates to establish a level playing field between online and physical retailers.
- Prioritising secure work and fair wages, Usdaw calls for the end of exploitative practices such as zero-hours contracts.
- Usdaw urges for enhanced safety measures and policing to tackle retail crime and ensure worker safety.
In the lead-up to the 2024 General Election, Usdaw has put forward a strong case for protecting retail workers throughout the UK. The union emphasises the importance of creating a new offence specifically for the abuse and assault of shopworkers in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, aligning with legislation already in place in Scotland. This measure aims to address the growing concerns over retail workers’ safety.
One of Usdaw’s primary recommendations involves the overhaul of business rates. The union pushes for reforms to create a fairer competitive environment between online platforms and brick-and-mortar retailers. This includes addressing tax avoidance and ensuring that companies contribute their fair share through appropriate taxation measures. Additionally, Usdaw calls for a comprehensive review of rents and leases, with the aim of fostering cooperative relationships between landlords and tenants, alongside increased funding for local authorities to support high street revitalisation.
Usdaw also champions for better pay and job security by advocating for a living wage reflective of the cost of living. The union seeks to abolish youth rates within the minimum wage and calls for the cessation of exploitative zero-hours contracts. In addition, Usdaw proposes ensuring reasonable compensation for workers facing cancelled shifts and improved statutory sick pay from the first day of illness.
Addressing the safety and security of shopworkers is another cornerstone of Usdaw’s campaign. They are pressing for heightened engagement with law enforcement and politicians to mitigate retail crime, with simplified reporting procedures to encourage incident reporting. The union advocates for legislative changes to treat shoplifting under £200 as a more serious offence, along with increased police presence in retail areas and town centre bans for repeat offenders.
Usdaw’s proposals present a robust framework for enhancing the protection and welfare of retail workers, which will be crucial for the viability of the sector.
