Water Workers Face Rise in Abuse and Threats
Negative public discourse around the water industry is leading to increased hostility towards water staff, according to this month’s Water Report Expert Forum. The research suggests this could have a severe impact on the sector’s ability to attract and retain talent, hindering its plans for future improvement.
The article highlights a rise in verbal abuse, threats, and even physical violence against water workers. Social media and misinformed media coverage are blamed for fuelling the negativity.
While some staff haven’t experienced issues, many report feeling a shift in public perception, with some even facing ridicule from friends and family. This is causing a significant strain on morale and could lead to staff shortages.
The article concludes that the industry needs to take a multi-pronged approach to address the issue. This includes improving communication with the public, promoting the positive contributions of the water sector, and potentially working together as an industry to improve its image.