NURSES TOLD TO COVER UP AFTER MASSACRE
NHS staff have been ordered to cover up their uniforms outside of work over fears they may be targeted by terrorists.
Medics across Scotland were told to wear jackets to hide work clothes and ensure they have ID with them in the wake of the suicide bomb last week.
The diktat is prompted by the Manchester Arena attack but NHS officials stressed it is not a response to any specific threat.
An NHS insider said: “The timing of this is no coincidence and is a response to the events of last
week. Some staff – notably midwives – were identified as particularly vulnerable. They often work alone in communities and could be seen as an easy target.
“This advice is timely and proportionate.
“Safety needs to be at the forefront of all our minds.”
The Scottish Government said it ordered Scotland’s 14 health boards to take the precautions after the threat level was raised to critical.
However, it has now returned to severe.
A spokesperson for the Royal College of Nursing said: “The health and safety of the work force is always a priority and, in line with our organisational policy, RCN would support the NHS.”
A spokeswoman for the Scottish Government said: “In light of the threat level, all necessary arrangements were put in place to promote security and vigilance within healthcare facilities across Scotland.
“The Scottish Government has been in touch with health boards to ensure these remain in place and that appropriate plans are in place so the NHS can respond effectively to major incidents.
“It remains the case that there are no indications of a specific threat to Scotland.”
In England, 27 trauma centres have been told to prepare for another attack, with medics advised to ensure they are aware of the procedures to deal with blast-related injuries.
They have also been ensuring they have enough blood supplies, following the attack carried out by Salman Abedi.
Abedi, 22, is believed to have put together the bomb used in the attack for £66 using materials bought from DIY stores.