Benefits workers target of abuse

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There have been more than 1,000 incidents of unacceptable behaviour towards benefits staff in Northern Ireland over the last five years.

The Department of Social Development figures were released after a question from SDLP MLA Thomas Burns.

In 2009, there were 193 cases of verbal abuse, four of fighting customers, eight of damage to offices, three thrown items and one assault on staff.

In 2008, £1,500 compensation was paid to a staff member attacked by a client.

A compensation claim from one member of staff over harassment by a member of the public in 2009 has yet to be resolved.

There are 10 social security offices and 25 jobs and benefits offices across Northern Ireland.