The service, funded by the Leverhulme Trade Charities Trust, aims to provide professional counselling support to grocery colleagues in the aftermath of an accident, robbery or assault in the workplace. 

“Independents don’t have an employer’s assistance programme and so haven’t got anywhere to go when incidents happen,” said Leonard. 

“We have seen one case so far and have received positive feedback.

“We work closely with symbol groups and are looking to grow those relationships to push this out.”