In a major step to enhance employee safety, Tesco is offering all 300,000 of its UK-based colleagues free access to a personal safety app, Peoplesafe, as part of its continued investment in colleague wellbeing.
The decision follows direct feedback from staff who shared concerns about feeling unsafe while travelling—particularly when commuting alone, at night, or through unfamiliar areas.
The Peoplesafe app is designed to provide 24/7 protection during travel, whether for work or personal reasons. Colleagues who choose to use the app can set their destination and mode of transport before starting a journey. The app will then monitor the trip, check in with the user, and raise an alert if something doesn’t seem right.
If a user doesn’t respond to check-in prompts or fails to arrive at their destination, trained staff in the Peoplesafe control room will step in—calling the user and, if needed, contacting emergency services with the user’s last known location. GPS tracking is optional and only visible to the Peoplesafe team—not Tesco.
Importantly, Tesco will not have access to any personal data or activity on the app. Using the app is entirely voluntary.
This move responds to growing concerns about travel safety across the UK. Research from the Overcoming the Employee Safety Gap report reveals that:
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60% of people feel unsafe using public transport during late or early hours
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Half worry about commuting alone
Tesco already offers a range of wellbeing benefits, including a 24/7 virtual GP service for colleagues and their families. The safety app adds another layer of support, reinforcing the company’s focus on looking after its people.
Rachel Bennett, Director of Shrink and Security at Tesco, commented:
“We know that some colleagues feel uneasy when travelling alone—whether it’s late at night after a shift, or during personal time. Their safety matters to us just as much outside work as it does inside. This app gives them peace of mind and real-time support if they ever feel at risk.”
Naz Dossa, CEO of Peoplesafe, praised the initiative:
“Tesco is setting a strong example by putting colleague safety first. Their commitment to safeguarding staff—both on and off the clock—shows real leadership.”
The move has also been welcomed by trade union USDAW. Daniel Adams, National Officer, said:
“Tesco is responding to the real-world challenges our members face, particularly around commuting during unsociable hours. It’s a welcome and practical investment that will help workers feel more secure.”
The safety app is not a replacement for in-store security. Tesco continues to invest heavily in workplace safety, with existing measures including body-worn cameras, panic buttons, protective screens, and a high-tech Security Hub in Daventry.
With this latest rollout, Tesco is reaffirming its commitment to protect and support colleagues—not just at work, but wherever life takes them.