STORE STAFF ABUSED OVER PRICES
FRONTLINE service industry staff are suffering increasing hostility from customers over rising prices.
The number facing abuse from the public has risen from 35 per cent to 44 per cent in the past six months.
According to a survey of 1300 workers, 35 per cent say customers have become more aggressive, making their jobs more difficult.
Soaring energy bills, the rising cost of living and National Insurance increases are cited as the main reasons, according to the Institute of Customer Service (ICS).
Legislation which becomes effective today will mean tougher sentences for those who attack frontline staff, with the maximum sentence doubling to two years in prison.
ICS chief executive Jo Causon said: “These new guidelines will provide vital protection for workers.”