Under Age Sales is working in partnership with USDAW and the National Federation of Retail Newsagents (NFRN) to lobby Parliament this year on introducing tougher sentences for those who commit violence against retailers after being asked for identification.

The organisations are calling on independent retailers to complete a survey on their experiences of verbal abuse and physical violence. The responses will be used to inform their lobbying for stricter sentencing powers for magistrates to use against those who commit violent crimes in store as a result of requests for age verification.

Retail store owners and staff who sell age restricted products can answer the questions here.

Tony Allen, managing director of Under Age Sales, a social enterprise which specialises in helping retailers prevent under age sales, said: “From our day-to-day dealings with retailers in their stores while delivering training, we understand many face the threat of violence on a regular basis simply for carrying out their duty and asking for ID when selling an age restricted product such as alcohol or tobacco.

“We want to work together with the government to do more to help retail staff who are simply looking to ensure minors don’t come into contact with potentially harmful or dangerous products.

“As such, we’re appealing to anyone who owns or works in newsagents, off licences, convenience stores or supermarkets to take our short, anonymous survey and help create a safer future for retail staff.”

Personal details won’t be shared with any third party as a result of taking part. All participants will be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win one of five £25 shopping vouchers.