RISING ATTACKS ON NHS STAFF – A DISGRACE SAYS UNISON
RISING ATTACKS ON NHS STAFF – A DISGRACE SAYS UNISON
“The rising level of assaults on NHS staff is an absolute disgrace” said, UNISON, the UK’s largest public service union today.
The latest figures from the NHS Security Management Services show a rise across the board of 1.7% but in the acute and ambulance sector this figure is up a shocking 20% and 3.5% on last year.
Karen Jennings, UNISON Head of Health, said:
“These statistics on violence make sad and shocking reading. Nurses, paramedics and other health workers should not have to go into work fearing that they may be at risk of attack.
“It is appalling that some members of the public see NHS staff as soft targets for assault. UNISON would like to see tougher legal action against those people found guilty of assault.”
UNISON is working closely with the NHS Security Management Service to tackle violence in the NHS. There has some success in better reporting of assaults, which may account for some of the increase. In addition, as the NHS treats more people each year, the potential for violence also increases.
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