Round 9 in 10 pharmacies skilled shoplifting and a rise in aggressive behaviour within the final 12 months, a survey has discovered.
Of 476 pharmacies in England polled by the Nationwide Pharmacy Affiliation (NPA), 88% mentioned they’ve skilled an increase in shoplifting incidents.
About 87% reported a surge in aggressive or intimidating behaviour in the direction of pharmacy workers, whereas 22% mentioned there had been bodily assaults on staff members.
Nearly three-quarters of those that reported these incidents to police felt the response was inadequate.
Sanjeev Panesar, a pharmacy proprietor in Birmingham, mentioned there was a “noticeable rise” in shoplifting throughout his websites prior to now 12 to 18 months, which incorporates some individuals filling up luggage with inventory earlier than strolling out.
Mr Panesar mentioned his workers “can endure verbal abuse or physical intimidation”.
“Facing such hostility is not only disheartening but has a lasting effect on job satisfaction, morale, and feelings of safety at work,” he mentioned.
He beforehand introduced in safety guards and even chased offenders off himself a number of occasions.
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Of 476 pharmacies, virtually 9 in 10 have seen an increase in shoplifting. Pic: iStock
‘We have to do extra’
The NPA, which represents greater than 6,000 group pharmacies, mentioned the findings of the survey had been “unacceptable” and “appalling”.
“Although pharmacies are taking their own steps to protect their staff and premises, the police should do much more to tackle crimes like shoplifting, which is becoming increasingly commonplace,” NPA chief govt Henry Gregg mentioned.
Mr Gregg additionally warned that the theft of robust painkillers or benzodiazepinesi “could have serious consequences for someone’s health”.
Mr Gregg added: “We need to do more to tackle shoplifting as well as offering pharmacies similar support to other NHS colleagues in primary care to protect their staff and their premises.”
