Story Highlight
– Violence and harassment cases against staff are rising.
– 2,537 aggressive incidents reported, up from last year.
– Body-worn cameras implemented for staff in hospitals.
– Eight patients banned; 16 received final warnings.
– Trust breached health safety law on machinery use.
Full Story
Instances of violence and harassment directed at staff within Nottingham’s hospitals have continued to escalate, despite the implementation of several preventive measures. The Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) Trust, which oversees both the Queen’s Medical Centre and City Hospital, has responded to this troubling trend by instituting bans on certain patients and employing advanced safety practices.
Currently, eight individuals have been prohibited from accessing hospital services except for emergency situations. Additionally, 16 patients have received final warnings regarding their conduct. This decisive action comes amid alarming statistics revealing a total of 2,537 reported instances of aggression, violence, and harassment (AVH) against hospital employees during the previous year. This marks a 169-case increase compared to the prior reporting period, as per the trust’s 2024/25 Health and Safety Report. In fact, the number of reported incidents rose sharply from 1,806 to 2,368 within just one year.
Gilbert George, the director of corporate governance at NUH, has acknowledged this upward trend in reported incidents. He attributes part of the rise to enhanced staff confidence in reporting such occurrences. “This has contributed to the increase in AVH incidents being reported, as staff are aware that when they report incidents, they will be listened to, and action will be taken,” he stated.
Further insights from the latest National Staff Survey indicate that nearly 15 per cent of staff members have experienced physical violence at the hands of patients, visitors, or other members of the public. Moreover, over a quarter of surveyed employees reported incidents of harassment, bullying, or abuse.
To combat these troubling trends, NUH has introduced various measures aimed at improving the safety of its staff. In late 2023, the trust rolled out body-worn cameras for its employees, equipping a total of 419 personnel, which includes 386 clinical staff and 33 members of security teams. These cameras have proved valuable, as police have requested footage approximately twelve times each week, leading to numerous positive outcomes in legal proceedings.
In conjunction with the body-worn cameras, NUH has also established a red and yellow card system to manage unacceptable behaviour. The red card effectively bars patients from receiving care for non-emergency needs, while the yellow card serves as a formal warning. Despite these efforts, however, the number of violent incidents has not diminished. Of the 2,537 total AVH cases recorded, a significant majority—2,382—were classified as ‘no’ or ‘low’ harm. Conversely, 150 incidents fell into the ‘moderate’ category, nearly double that of the previous year. Only five incidents were classified as ‘severe’, although the trust has indicated that four of these cases are likely to be reclassified following review. The remaining severe incident involved a prisoner who, while attempting to evade capture, injured two prison guards prior to being subdued by hospital security.
Mr. George remarked on the approach of NUH toward violence and aggression, noting the broader response to AVH cases that includes ongoing training and education, careful application of policies, and collaboration with police and community teams. This multifaceted strategy underscores the trust’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against AVH.
The report also highlighted an investigation into a breach of health and safety regulations concerning the use of vibrating machinery. A member of the gardening staff had developed carpal tunnel syndrome, prompting a probe by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in February. As a result of the findings, NUH received a notice of contravention for failing to comply with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005. However, upon demonstrating that corrective measures had been implemented to mitigate risks to workers, the HSE determined that no further action was warranted.
Danielle Petch, chief people officer at NUH, provided context regarding the investigation: “The trust responded to the investigation, offering full information on actions taken, and shortly after in April, the HSE confirmed that they were satisfied and removed the notice.”
The ongoing challenges faced by healthcare staff in Nottingham reflect broader issues experienced across the NHS as a whole. The rise in AVH incidents is prompting calls within the sector for increased protections and support for those on the frontline. As healthcare workers contend with these troubling trends, the measures implemented by trusts like NUH are critical not only for fostering a safer working environment but also for ensuring that patients receive the care they deserve without subjecting medical professionals to undue risk.
As Nottingham University Hospitals continues to navigate these difficulties, the focus remains firmly on cultivating a culture of safety and respect within healthcare settings. By addressing the causes of violence and harassment proactively, the hope is to create a more secure and supportive environment for both staff and patients alike.
Our Thoughts
The rise in aggression and violence against staff at Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) highlights a significant need for improved measures to ensure the safety of healthcare workers. Key lessons include reinforcing the training and awareness programs for staff on handling aggressive behaviors and increasing security presence in high-risk areas.
Despite the implementation of body-worn cameras and a banning system, the uptick in incidents suggests that preventive strategies may be insufficient or inadequately enforced. A stronger focus on de-escalation techniques and improving the hospital environment could mitigate risks.
The situation raises concerns regarding compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, particularly regarding the duty of care to protect employees from foreseeable risks. Additionally, the investigation into the breach of the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 underscores the need for stricter adherence to health and safety laws to prevent workplace injuries.
To prevent similar incidents, NUH should regularly review and update its health and safety policies, ensuring that all staff are trained on both aggression management and ergonomic safety practices.
