A total of 55 ambulance service staff a day face abuse or attacks, according to new figures.
Data from the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) shows the “highest ever rate” of violence, aggression and abuse towards first responders. Leading union UNISON has warned that such behaviour is “appalling” and that better protection for ambulance workers is essential.
This comes less than a fortnight after the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) reported how its staff faced attacks on Christmas Day. Afterwards, NEAS said one member of staff had experienced a “serious incident of violence”. A man arrested on suspicion of assault over that incident remains on police bail.
The AACE organisation brings together ambulance service leaders from across the UK – including outgoing NEAS boss Helen Ray. In the six months to September 2024, nationwide there were 11,817 reported incidents of violence, aggression and abuse.
That includes incidents from kicks and headbutts to sexual assault and serious attacks involving weapons. The AACE says the trend is likely to see more than 20,000 incidents reported in a single year for the first time.
Anna Parry, managing director of AACE, said: “These new figures highlight the upsetting fact that ambulance employees face the very real possibility of being subject to violence or abuse each time they start a shift. This can have a significant and lasting impact on wellbeing and sometimes even lead to people leaving the ambulance service.”
Jason Killens, chair of AACE, said: “This unacceptable behaviour has a major long-term impact on the health and wellbeing of ambulance people who are simply trying to do their jobs and help save lives. This is why we are making a plea to the public to ensure that our staff are treated with the respect they deserve.”
Mr Killens highlighted the need for tough sentencing to deter offenders. He said: “We are also asking the judiciary to use their full powers under the Assaults on Emergency Workers Offences Act 2018 legislation to ensure appropriate sentences are handed out consistently to those found guilty of committing these crimes against our workforce.”
AACE also estimates more than 5,000 incidents will be reported over the winter months of December, January and February.
UNISON’s Northern regional secretary Clare Williams 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.”
Saffron Cordery, interim chief executive of NHS Providers, said: “Violence against any member of NHS staff is completely unacceptable. Healthcare staff provide a vital service, ensuring patients receive the care they need as quickly as possible, often in high-pressure and challenging situations.
“This is particularly true for ambulance staff. There is absolutely no excuse for the public to direct violence, aggression or abuse against NHS staff who are there to help them.”
A Government spokesperson said: “Violence of any kind is unacceptable, and NHS staff should be able to care for patients without fear of assault. Those who assault emergency workers should face the full force of the law and can face up to two years’ imprisonment.”
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