Part 1: NHS Staff – Violence, Abuse and the Need for Real Protection

Frontline NHS staff in England continue to face unacceptable levels of violence, harassment and abuse. This harm comes not only from patients, relatives and members of the public, but also from within workplaces themselves.

The scale of the problem is growing, and the failure to address it properly is putting workers at serious physical and psychological risk.

Violence against NHS staff is rising

The 2024 NHS Staff Survey shows a worsening picture. 14.38% of staff reported at least one incident of physical violence in the past year, up from 13.88% in 2023.

Internal workplace violence is also increasing. 1.89% of staff reported physical violence from colleagues, while 0.78% experienced violence from managers.

Harassment, bullying or abuse from patients or the public affected more than a quarter of all NHS staff (25.08%), highlighting how routine mistreatment has become for frontline workers.

Independent research reveals the true scale

Independent Trade Union research paints an even more alarming picture. A joint 2025 study of more than 1,000 nurses and midwives found that 93% had experienced physical violence at work.

63% had been attacked in the last 12 months, and 17% had been assaulted in the previous week alone.

Staff described being punched, spat at, bitten, head-butted and, in some cases, stabbed. Violence often came not just from patients, but from relatives or visitors as well.

High-risk environments and systemic failure

The pressure is most acute in A&E departments, mental health services and other areas where understaffing meets high demand. Violence against A&E staff has almost doubled since 2019.

Beyond physical injuries, the emotional toll is severe. Burnout, anxiety and PTSD-type symptoms are now widespread across the NHS workforce.

Despite the seriousness of these incidents, only around one-third of assaulted staff felt their employer responded appropriately. Too many workers are left unsupported, or told that violence is simply “part of the job”.

It is not — and it must never be accepted.

NHS staff deserve real protection

NHS staff are the backbone of the health service. They deserve workplaces that are safe, properly staffed and actively protected by management.

Failure to address violence at work is not only a moral failing, it is a breach of worker rights and employer responsibility.

Statement from the General Secretary

Stephen Morris, General Secretary of the Workers of England Union, said:

“Where employers fail to act, the Workers of England Union will help its members who want to take it further.

If you have been assaulted, harassed or abused by a patient, a member of the public, a colleague or a manager, you are not alone.

The WEU is here to stand with you, challenge unsafe practices and support you in taking the matter further with your employer.

Contact the Workers of England Union office immediately if you have experienced any form of violence or abuse at work. We will ensure your voice is heard and your employment rights are defended.”