Why Frontline Retail Workers Deserve Better Safety Measures

No one should fear for their safety at work. Yet, the tragic attack on Cecilia Bird highlights a harsh reality for frontline retail staff. With over 700,000 incidents of abuse and violence reported last year, the problem is escalating. Frontline workers like Cecilia deserve to feel safe at work and return home to their families every night, without fear for their safety.

She Should Have Been Safe: The Tragic Reality for Retail Workers

In 2023 alone, the Duress Safety Index reported that emergency activations doubled between November and December, underscoring the heightened risk during the busy holiday season. Retail workers are already bracing for what’s to come, as a survey by the SDA union found that 76% of members had experienced verbal abuse, while 12.5% reported suffering physical violence. The abuse is escalating, and without intervention, we can expect these numbers to climb.

The Ripple Effect of Retail Abuse: It’s More Than Just the Victim

Cecilia's incident didn't just affect her. It traumatised her colleagues, family, and community. Retail workers are human beings, yet, they're facing abuse and violence daily.

 

The Need for a Proactive Solution: Protecting Your Frontline Team

With 700,000 incidents of retail aggression reported last year, action is necessary. The upcoming holiday rush will only exacerbate the problem. But instead of waiting for the worst to happen, we believe in taking action to prevent it.

Duress Eagle: A Solution to Enhance Team Safety and Deter Crime

At Duress, we offer a practical solution to keep frontline workers safe with the Duress Eagle. Our devices act as a direct deterrent to crime and violence, empowering your team with instant access to help. The Duress Eagle provides priority emergency response through live video, audio and location that is sent to our 24/7 A1 Graded Monitoring Centre, ensuring your team isn’t left vulnerable in times of need.

Interested? Let’s Chat About How We Can Help

We’re here to support you during the busiest—and most dangerous—time of the year. Book some time to discuss how Duress can enhance your team’s safety.

 

Key Points to Remember:

• Frontline workers face increasing violence, with 700,000 incidents reported last year.

• Abuse is expected to rise during the holiday season.

• Duress offers a reliable safety solution, connecting staff to emergency services with real-time video, audio and location.

 

Let’s ensure your team feels safe and protected.