I don't feel safe at work. What can I do about it?

Your employer is responsible for your safety at work. This includes taking action to prevent violent, abusive and threatening behaviour from customers, clients and fellow workers, and supporting you if this happens.

At the same time, you have to think carefully about the risks you face at work. Diana Lamplugh, who founded The Suzy Lamplugh Trust after her daughter was abducted in 1986, says: 'The only way to enable someone to be safe is for them to decide to be safe for themselves. To ask questions of themselves, such as “What would I do if?” or “If this should happen, then what would I do?” Practise the “If this… then what?” scenarios until they become second nature. Knowing your way round gives confidence, changes behaviour and makes you less likely to be an easy target.'

Violence and abuse at work may be unpredictable, but it is not unpreventable.