Rising Public Aggression

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in public aggression, with violence against the person offences increasing by 18% between 2021 and 2022 alone.

This rise in aggression poses significant challenges for employers, as it jeopardises both the safety and the wellbeing of workers.

Volence against the person offences have increased by 18%

88% of people have experienced some form of unwanted behaviour while using public transport

9 in 10 retail workers have faced abuse at work

This issue disproportionately affects women and minority groups. Research by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust found that 90% of women reported experiencing some form of unwanted behaviour while using public transport, compared to 81% of men. Across the board, LGBTQ+ and minority ethnic groups report even higher frequencies of incidents.

The retail sector has also witnessed a worrying trend in aggression towards workers. According to the Retail Trust, 9 in 10 retail workers have faced abuse at work, with 84% subjected to verbal abuse, a third threatened, 14% physically assaulted, and 10% spat on.

Most concerningly, the frequency of such incidents is on the rise, with 41% of retail workers experiencing abuse on a weekly basis, up from 34% in 2022.

Under-reporting remains a significant challenge in addressing this behaviour, with many incidents going unreported due to fear, victim blaming, and a lack of confidence in reporting mechanisms. This reluctance to report escalates the problem by allowing perpetrators to continue their behaviour without consequences.

As incidents of public aggression continue to rise, employers must adapt their strategies to address the evolving risk.