Assaults up on ambulance staff

The number of assaults on ambulance staff in the county has increased for the fifth year in a row.

South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAMB) recorded 234 attacks, 27 more than last year and a climb of 139% since 2011-12.

The full total is likely to be higher as some incidents had more than one victim.

The number of civil and criminal convictions also increased from 49 to 104, according to the figures released following an FOI.

Of 74 incidents, seven had a sexual element, two saw a weapon used, 21 were influenced by drugs, alcohol or both and at least 17 of those responsible had mental health issues.

The remaining 160 cases were ongoing.

The trust said it was pleased the number of criminal and civil sanctions against individuals was up.

Adam Graham, SECAMB security manager, said: “We encourage staff to report anyone who physically attacks or verbally abuses them. Ambulance crews must never be made to feel violence is a part of their job.”

The increase in violence led to SECAMB installing CCTV in ambulances in 2014.

It announced last year staff could be issued with bodyworn cameras.