UK businesses face surge in annual leave requests amid riots
Staff safety concerns rise with UK riots causing business disruptions
Businesses have seen a surge in last-minute annual leave requests since the UK riots started, with employees fearing for their safety and the security of their vehicles. Concerns about accessing public transport during the unrest have also been raised.
Staff have voiced worries about personal safety, potential car damage, and the challenges of using public transport amidst the chaos. At the software company BrightHR, HR advisors have noted a significant rise in employer inquiries about staff safety.
Britain is preparing for another night of anti-immigration demonstrations at 100 locations across the nation. Leaked messages from suspected far-right Telegram channels reveal threats against anti-racism campaigners, offensive slurs, and advice on concealing identities.
Businesses in areas where protests are expected, including an immigration law firm, pubs, shops, and hairdressers, have boarded up in anticipation of potential violence.
BrightHR’s new data shows a 121% increase in downloads of its employee safety handbook and a 118% rise in its evacuation record. HR advisors recommend adjusting working hours and expanding flexible working options to help staff avoid riot hotspots during commutes.
Securing business entry points and rescheduling non-essential work have also been suggested. Lucy Cobb, Advice Operations Manager at BrightHR, stated that the increase in safety document downloads and employer inquiries highlights growing concerns over staff safety due to the UK riots.
With further unrest expected, business owners are seeking expert advice on protecting their workforce and maintaining operations. Emergency procedures are being put in place to handle potential attacks on businesses.
The violent unrest has shaken Britain over the past week, with police clashing with crowds in cities and towns from Northern Ireland to the south coast of England. Misinformation online about the suspect in the Southport knife attack, who killed three girls, being a Muslim asylum seeker, has escalated tensions.
Far-right mobs have looted shops, set fire to hotels housing migrants, and attacked police officers, marking some of the worst disorder in over a decade. Hundreds of arrests have been made, with some individuals already appearing in court.
Those who break the law will feel the full force of the law. pic.twitter.com/FNCIw7tRzH
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) August 6, 2024
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who termed the riots as ‘far-right thuggery,’ convened an emergency COBRA meeting yesterday to address the chaos. Tonight, protests are expected in 41 of the 43 police force areas in England and Wales. A police source indicated that today could be the busiest day of the week.
Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine urged parents to monitor their children’s movements to avoid involvement in violent or criminal activities. Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson mentioned that a case of alleged terrorism is under active consideration. The King has requested frequent updates on the situation.
