HUNDREDS of social security workers across East Lancashire are due to strike on Monday following a row over staff safety.

Under pressure workers claim that assaults and threats from the public are on the increase and planned changes to the system will make the situation worse.

The dispute, which will force Benefits Agency offices across the North West to close, is also likely to cause delays for claimants.

Payments could be held up and new claims are also likely to be delayed by the industrial action.

And there are more disruptions on the way with walk-outs being organised for Monday, October 7, and the following Tuesday.

The Civil and Public Services Association, has called the strike in protest at the lack of protection workers get from the public. And the union believes the threats of violence and abuse will get worse when the controversial Jobseekers Allowance replaces Unemployment Benefit and Income Support next month.

The new system will mean that some people will lose out on benefits will be dealt with by clerical workers working in open plan job centres.

CPSA workers walked out three times in August over the issue and are now planning to put further pressure on management.

A spokesman for the union said: "Our members are angry that the Benefits Agency are placing their staff at risk without adequate protection.

"They cannot ignore the fact that assaults and incidents are on the increase. What will it take before they listen? Will someone have to be killed?"

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