Did you know that retail workers have reported increased abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic? Surveys by Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association SDA (a union for retail employees) revealed that:
- 88% of their retail members have experienced verbal abuse from customers.
- 15% have experienced physical customer violence.
- 36% of harassment was perpetrated by customers
Many workers feel helpless as abuse seems more accepted in retail than in other workplaces. Sayings like “the customer is always right” gives people the idea they can do whatever it takes to get their way.
These are shocking statistics and it’s simply unfair. As a super fund run to benefit our members – around half of whom are currently working in retail – we think it’s vital to spread awareness of this issue. We support SDA’s No One Deserves A Serve Campaign and are here to remind all Australians of the importance of kindness.
Here’s 5 tips to help you be a kinder customer, especially during this busy shopping season.
At Rest, we’ll keep supporting our members, fighting for fair, and reminding Australians to choose kindness. Together, we can all play our part to look after one another. Now that’s fair.
You’re not alone. If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.