H&M staff 'serious concerns' after incident at Castlepoint

Man reportedly filmed women and young girls in H&M changing rooms <i>(Image: NQ)</i>
Man reportedly filmed women and young girls in H&M changing rooms (Image: NQ)
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STAFF at H&M have "serious concerns" over the safety of customers after a man reportedly filmed women changing in the store's changing rooms last week.

Dorset Police said it received reports of voyeurism on Saturday, May 30 at the Castlepoint store.

The man was allegedly taking pictures of female customers.

Video acquired by the Echo showed the man being confronted by members of the public in the store before making a swift exit.

A shopworker at H&M who did not wish to be named said the "lack of communication" has led to concerns among the staff.

"I am concerned about the lack of communication regarding the incident that occurred last week," they said.

"Staff have been instructed not to discuss the matter, but many of us have serious concerns about safety and staffing levels."

The staff member claimed there were "opportunities to reduce the risk of this incident" but blamed ongoing understaffing which made it "increasingly difficult to maintain a safe environment for both colleagues and customers".

They added that H&M has not said what steps will be taken to prevent a similar incident in the future, while one of the alleged victims said she felt "sickened" by the incident.

They said: "Many employees would like reassurance that lessons have been learned and that meaningful action is being taken."

A man has since come forward to police and is now assisting officers in their enquiries. He has not been arrested or charged in relation to the incident.

A spokesperson for H&M said: "We take these allegations very seriously, and while we are unable to comment on this specific case as it is currently under police investigation, we are committed to ensuring that our customers feel safe and supported when shopping with us."

Castlepoint previously said it was advised by H&M of the alleged incident.

A spokesperson for the shopping centre said: "While individual retailers are responsible for the operation and security of their own stores, the safety and wellbeing of everyone who visits and works at Castlepoint remains our number one priority.

"We are assisting H&M and Dorset Police where appropriate and will continue to support their enquiries as required."

Castlepoint added it "would not be appropriate to comment further" at this time.

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