Moray MP Douglas Ross demonstrated his support for the Respect for Shopworkers week when he visited the Co-op store in Lossiemouth on Friday.
Douglas said: “It was great to be in Lossiemouth and speak with staff about how they are working to make their community and their shop a better and safer place and to show my support for the USDAW Respect for Shopworkers week campaign.
“During my visit I was able to discuss community safety issues and hear at first-hand about what action is being taken to help tackle crime. While we live in in a generally safe, low crime area, it is unacceptable that shop workers face any threat of violent incidents.
Fortunately, Moray is one of the safest parts of the country, but we need to remain vigilant. Recent figures show increases in violent crime across the country and we should work together to ensure shop-workers in Moray are not put at risk.
“Products can be replaced and stores repaired, but violent crime in shops often has a shocking, and lasting, impact on those working at the frontline. That is why I am backing this important initiative as we must all do everything we can to help reduce these attacks.”
Paul Gerrard, Director of Campaigns at the Co-op, said: “Retail crime is often considered to be victimless as people think it only involves a faceless business losing stock or money. However, it is not the shop that is left bruised, bleeding or traumatised. This type of crime has nothing to do with profit and everything to do with people.
“In the months ahead, we’ll be looking to work with local community groups and other neighbourhood leaders who are engaged in tackling the root causes of crime, to see if we can identify mutual solutions to shared concerns.”