"GIVING something to get something back." This is the message from Home Secretary, David Blunkett, as he visited the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW) conference at the Blackpool Winter Gardens on Tuesday, April 27.

Led by faithful guide dog - Sadie - the minister paid a flying visit to the three-day annual conference in support of the union's latest campaign "Freedom From Fear' which aims to stamp out crime and anti-social behaviour in the workplace.

In a speech to delegates, Mr Blunkett urged employers to take note of "innovative" new schemes - Shop Watch and STEP - being introduced in London and Norfolk which allow retail staff time off to act as special police constables.

Speaking exclusively toThe Citizen the Home Secretary said: "I'd very much like to see schemes such as Shop Watch and STEP become nationwide initiatives.

"We've already seen a good response from some of the larger retailers such as Dixons who are prepared to allow their employees time off to give something back to the community.

"And the government are in full support of any employer wishing to follow this lead in allowing their employees time off to participate in schemes such as this.

"That way retailers and employers are giving something to get something back and that's what this is all about."

USDAW General Secretary, Sir Bill Connor said: "Through our Freedom From Fear campaign USDAW urges local authorities, police forces and retailers to work with us, in partnership to address this important issue.

"Anti-social behaviour legislation and schemes such as Shop Watch and STEP are to be applauded as significant steps in the right direction."