Usdaw has called for government action over attacks on staff at forecourts across the UK.
The organisation said that the assaults, which have been breaking out during nationwide petrol shortages, are “deeply disturbing.”
The news follows the latest HGV driver crisis, which has seen the shortage of 100,000 drivers across the country result in undelivered goods nationwide.
Organisations including the National Farmers Union (NFU) and the Road Haulage Association (RHA) have been demanding emergency Covid-19 Recovery Visas and support to deliver goods to retailers, hospitality centres and supermarkets.
READ MORE: Central England Co-op ringfences petrol for emergency workers
Usdaw is also blaming the government for a “complete failure” to manage the supply crisis.
According to the government, 150 military personnel have been recruited to deliver emergency petrol supplies with an additional 150 members of support staff to alleviate pressure on fuel supplies.
“Abuse should never be just part of the job and there is no excuse for customers to take their frustrations out on staff,” Usdaw general secretary Paddy Lillis said.
“Who takes the brunt of people’s frustrations?
“It’s over-stretched, underpaid, exhausted workers who are doing their best in extremely difficult circumstances.
“The government must take responsibility for this crisis.”
Click here to sign up to Grocery Gazette’s free daily email newsletter
