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October 13, 2024
There were 63,199 physical assaults in 2012-13 across England – up 6% from 59,744 in 2011-12, according to new figures.
Unions said damaging NHS cuts were partly to blame and Christina McAnea, of Unison, described the rising violence as “unacceptable”.
She said: “Sadly, this is only the tip of the iceberg as violence on NHS premises remains an under-reported problem. The cuts and resultant pressure on services are causing growing patient frustration.”
Dr Peter Carter, general secretary of the Royal College of Nurses, agreed and said: “We are concerned frontline staff may be at greater risk because of additional pressures on services, leading to a growing level of frustration from some patients.”
NHS Protect, which monitors crime in the health service, also found only 1,458 people were charged or given an order after assaulting staff – a 16% rise from 1,257 in 2011-12.
Health Minister Dan Poulter said: “Any physical or verbal abuse against NHS staff is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“Legal powers are available to remove people not requiring treatment from hospital premises in cases of nuisance behaviour and to prosecute those who refuse to leave.
“It is outrageous there have been so many assaults against NHS staff, but better awareness will help them feel able to speak out and stop it.”
Earlier this month, we revealed nine in 10 healthcare assistants had been the victims of aggression or violence in the past year.
Source The Mirror