Commenting on new figures published by the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives today (Tuesday) highlighting the levels of physical and verbal abuse directed at UK ambulance staff, UNISON deputy head of health Alan Lofthouse said:
“Nobody should endure violence or abuse just for doing their job. It’s appalling that paramedics and ambulance workers, who deliver life-saving care, are targeted with punches, kicks, death threats and other disgraceful tirades.
“This shocking report shows an alarming rise in incidents that has to be addressed. Tougher consequences and better protection for staff are needed urgently.
“Ambulance staff who’re there to protect the public must be able to work without fear of being assaulted or threatened.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
Sophie Goodchild M: 07767 325595 E: s.goodchild@unison.co.uk
The article Tougher laws needed to protect ambulance staff against violence and abuse first appeared on the UNISON National site.
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