One-fifth of home delivery drivers have been threatened or attacked by members of the public, according to a survey of more than 500 couriers and delivery drivers conducted by Peoplesafe.
Over a third (35%) of those surveyed said that they felt at risk when working alone, especially at night and in isolated locations.
The survey found that more than 20% are taking steps to protect themselves while out on route, from common sense measures such as locking doors to using safety equipment such as cameras and alarms.
“These are hugely alarming statistics that highlight the dangers faced by home delivery operatives every day,” explains Naz Dossa, CEO of Peoplesafe.
And he said it had got worse during the pandemic. “There is significant anecdotal evidence that suggests that couriers and delivery drivers have faced growing threats during the COVID pandemic, with well documented examples of hijackings, attempted thefts and road rage incidents. With this added risk they are feeling increasingly vulnerable when they are out making deliveries,” he said.
