Trade union Usdaw has called on the government to ensure that frontline retail staff are prioritised for vaccination and Covid testing.

In a letter addressed to health and business ministers, union bosses expressed concerns over the safety of staff members.

They urged the government to make sure retail staff are paid in full and support those who are ill, self-isolating or shielding.

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The union also encouraged retailers to reinforce safety measures in shops and for customers to follow the rules.

The letter authors claimed retail staff were at “greater risk of catching the virus and bringing it home to their families”.

“Retail staff are working with the public every day and are not only suffering increased abuse, but are also deeply worried about catching Covid-19,” Usdaw general-secretary Paddy Lillis said.

“That must be taken into account by the government when assessing risk levels and priority for vaccines and testing.

“We are calling on the government to ensure that retail workers and delivery drivers are given priority, because they provide the essential service of keeping the nation fed.

“We are also looking for support from the government, retail employers and the shopping public to help make food stores and deliveries as safe as possible for customers and staff alike,” he added.