The trusts actions come amid increasing levels of violence targeted at healthcare workers.
A hospital has brought in a private security firm to protect emergency department staff following a spate of abuse.
The James Paget University Hospital confirmed it has commissioned a private security firm to work overnight in its emergency department and at the hospital’s main entrance following a series of incidents.
Trust board papers reveal there were 38 reported incidents of aggression or violence towards staff at the hospital in July alone.
A spokesperson for the trust said; “The trust has engaged a security company to provide reassurance to our hard-working staff, following several incidents of abuse from members of the public over the last few weeks”.
The trust also admitted that in-house portering staff had been doubling up as security while more permanent arrangements were made.
Treat staff with courtesy and respect.
The trusts actions come amid increasing levels of violence targeted at healthcare workers since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A survey undertaken by NursingNotes last year revealed that a massive 62% of NHS workers had experienced either verbal or physical violence from patients.
A recent plea by the trust on social media reads; “We’re also asking that if you have to attend, you treat our staff with courtesy and respect.
“Our team have been working incredibly hard and, if you are in the waiting room, you will not be aware of how many patients with life-threatening emergencies they are dealing with behind the scenes.
“Sadly, recently our staff have been dealing with increasing amounts of rude and abusive behaviour. Patients are dealt with on the basis of clinical need, so if you come in as a non-emergency you may face a wait.
“Please do not abuse our staff and please show them some courtesy – disrespectful behaviour towards the team that are working hard to help you and other patients is simply unacceptable.”
