SOCIAL security staff were back on strike today in their fight to stay safe from violent clients. Their union has warned they may step up industrial action if managers remain unmoved.

Staff at Chatham's benefits office in The Brook are walking out today and tomorrow to fight against plans to remove safety screens.

Chas Berry, spokesman for the Public and Community Services Union, said: "Nothing changed after the last two-day strikes in December. If these new days of action don't move us further forward we will turn the screws and ballot for overtime bans.

"At the moment we have made no progress because the management say this is Government policy and it is not negotiable. But we will not compromise on safety.

"Last week when a client at the benefits office in Harlesden in London smashed up 10 computers with a chain, that confirmed our fears."

The strikes are part of a national series of days of action by the PCS. Union members fear the loss of safety barriers will lead to an increase in the risk of staff being attacked by the minority of violent and abusive customers. They say verbal abuse happens daily and violent attacks are becoming more common.

The Department for Work and Pensions, formerly the Benefits Agency, says all offices have CCTV and security guards and staff carry panic alarms. Most enquiries will be answered by phone and the few visiting customers will be escorted to the relevant part of the building.

The DWP says all this will reduce queuing.

Staff from other offices may be drafted in to provide a skeleton service at Chatham during the strike. Customers should ring to find out what service, if any, can be provided, on 01634 810200.