Retail security workers have been advised not to intervene in shoplifting incidents, amid growing fears over violence in stores and a sharp rise in theft across the UK high street.
The Security Industry Federation (SIF) has instructed members to avoid putting themselves “in harm’s way”, advising staff to observe, report incidents, and act as witnesses for the police rather than physically confronting offenders.
The guidance reflects mounting concern over escalating aggression towards shop workers, but has also triggered criticism from parts of the retail sector and political opponents who warn it risks further emboldening criminals.
SIF general secretary Daniel Garnham acknowledged the advice runs against the instincts of many frontline security professionals, but defended it on safety grounds, saying: “Someone else’s stock is not more important than your safety, your career or your licence.”
He added that security workers are increasingly being asked to shoulder risks without adequate protection or accountability from others in the system.
The union Usdaw has issued similar guidance to retail staff, urging them to prioritise personal safety and avoid confronting “potentially dangerous criminals”, while continuing to support evidence gathering for prosecutions.
The debate comes against a backdrop of worsening shop theft, with retailers introducing increasingly defensive measures. Supermarket chain Greggs has already removed some self-service fridges in response to rising theft and staff safety concerns.
The issue was highlighted by Sir Keir Starmer, who described it as “disgraceful” that shop workers are exposed to abuse and fear during their working day, amid growing pressure on the Government to respond.
However, the guidance has drawn sharp criticism from opposition politicians, who argue it reflects a broader breakdown in law and order.
Shadow ministers pointed to rising shoplifting rates and incidents of violence against retail staff, warning that a policy of non-intervention could further weaken deterrence.
Figures from the Metropolitan Police show shoplifting in London rose by 19 per cent in the year to September 2025, reaching 93,849 recorded offences.
Retailers have increasingly warned that theft has become normalised in some areas, with staff reporting routine abuse, intimidation and in some cases physical assaults.
The dispute now highlights a growing tension at the heart of the sector: how to protect staff in an environment of rising crime without effectively surrendering control of the shop floor.
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