Assaults against health workers on the increase

Rising numbers of NHS staff in England are being assaulted at work, leading one health union to speak of concerns over cuts. The figures were released recently by NHS Protect, which seeks to ensure staff safety.

NHS Protect produced the statistics from reports provided by 266 health bodies. These show the number of physical assaults against health workers.

The figures reveal an almost 9% hike in reported assaults. These rose by 8.7% — from 63,199 in 2012-2013 to 68,683 in 2013-2014. And the number of criminal sanctions for assaults has also jumped. These increased by 13% from 1,458 to 1,649.

Christina McAnea, head of health at the UNISON public services union, said: “It is absolutely shocking that every day more than 188 NHS workers are physically attacked. The fact this figure is rising year on year should ring alarm bells.”

She added: “The cuts and pressure on the service have caused growing patient frustration but no staff should be assaulted or feel unsafe at work. This is unfair on staff who do their best to care for patients and their families when they’re at their most vulnerable.”

McAnea said that there can be no excuse for abusing or assaulting staff and all incidents should be taken very seriously.

“Sadly, violence on NHS premises often goes unreported and many workers are left to suffer in silence.”

www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/3645.aspx

www.unison.org.uk/at-work/health-care/unison-reacts-to-new-stats-on-violence-against-nhs-staff