SIX hundred social services workers will refuse to move offices unless safety screens are installed.

Social services staff at Greenwich Council currently work in Nelson House, Wellington Street, Woolwich, where the nine receptionists work behind screens to protect them from violent members of the public.

But under a phased relocation, the workers would be without screens in a new service centre at Riverside House in Woolwich High Street by February next year.

Public service trade union Unison is concerned for staff safety following two recent violent incidents.

Greenwich branch secretary Onay Kasab says a member of the public threatened to kill a social service receptionist on June 16 before breaking down a door and assaulting staff.

Following a meeting on August 3, 600 Unison members backed a motion not to move offices unless the receptions are guaranteed safety screens.

Mr Kasab said: "Members of the public get angry and its the reception staff who bear the brunt."

A council spokesman said a security gaurd and CCTV will be introduced in the new offices.

The council confirms two incidents took place but denies staff were assaulted.