Make assaulting a security worker a standalone offence

Security workers play a vital role in maintaining public safety, but can face violence and abuse while performing their duties. Despite their critical role in protecting businesses, venues, and the public, security workers lack the legal protections afforded to emergency workers and shop workers.

We think the government must address this by enacting specific legislation making assaulting a security worker a standalone offence.

Security are often first responders to incidents of crime and violence, yet, we feel they get little recognition or statutory protection, leaving them vulnerable. A dedicated offence could serve as a deterrent and an acknowledgment of their role in protecting public safety. We would want legal protections in line with those for emergency and retail staff.

The private security industry plays a crucial role in keeping the public safe. Physical assaults and verbal abuse against security personnel are unacceptable. The Government recognises the vital work of the private security industry in protecting the public and safeguarding vulnerable people.

There is existing legislation that provides protection for some categories of security workers and this legislation will need to be considered in the context of this petition

We are aware that there have been previous calls for security workers to be included in the Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Act 2018, which came into force on 13 November 2018. The categories included in that Act broadly cover police, prison officers, fire and rescue personnel and certain NHS workers who interact with the public as part of their work. These occupations and positions have been included in the legislation as they are individuals who may be required, at some point, to deal with emergencies and have been exposed to the risks of assault in the course of their day-to-day work as they perform the function of an emergency worker no matter whether they are on duty or not. 

Where an assault occurs, there is a currently a wide range of offences that cover an assault against any worker, including security/door staff, which include offences such as common assault, actual bodily harm, grievous bodily harm, and other public order offences. 

Section 156 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 created a statutory aggravating factor in sentencing cases of assault against public-facing workers. It applies where an assault is committed against those providing a public service, performing a public duty or providing a service to the public, including public-facing roles in banks and building societies. This reinforces the seriousness with which the courts treat offences against anyone providing a public service. In effect, a person convicted of an assault against any worker providing a public service could see their sentence increased within the current maximum penalty for the offence under which they are convicted.