A shopworker in Bootle, Merseyside, has spoken out after being dismissed from her role at a One Stop convenience store following an incident where she confronted a suspected shoplifter. Eileen Fox, 56, who had been employed by the company since September 2022, described her sacking as "very harsh" and is exploring potential legal avenues.
The incident occurred on 27 April at the One Stop Shop in Randall Drive. Ms Fox stated she approached a woman she believed was a regular shoplifter, who was allegedly taking packets of bacon. Ms Fox said she took hold of the suspect's coat sleeve, leading to the individual losing balance while turning away and bumping into a metal stand before fleeing the store. One Stop management, however, stated in her dismissal letter that Ms Fox "followed" the shoplifter, "grabbed her and slammed her into a metal stand", an account Ms Fox disputes, insisting she did not follow the individual.
Following the incident, which was reported to Merseyside Police by the store's duty manager, Ms Fox was called into an investigatory meeting and subsequently suspended. Her dismissal was confirmed in writing on 12 May, with One Stop management concluding her actions had "put the business at risk" and breached company policy. The company's area manager's letter, seen by the BBC, stated that Ms Fox understood the policy regarding shoplifting incidents and that her explanation of instinct taking over suggested a likelihood of similar behaviour in the future.
Ms Fox acknowledged breaching company policy but maintained that her actions were instinctive, stating she had "never done anything like that before". She also highlighted a previous incident where a man who regularly caused issues had robbed the store the week prior, causing unease among staff. One Stop reiterated its policy, stating it asks colleagues "never to risk their own safety" and provides training on how to respond to incidents, alongside continuous investment in security measures and collaboration with the police.
Currently unemployed, Ms Fox is seeking advice on whether to pursue legal action regarding her dismissal. The case highlights the difficult position retail staff can face when confronted with theft, balancing personal safety and company policy against the immediate impulse to prevent loss.