NHS leaders say ‘physical attacks verbal abuse and threats of violence have become commonplace’ in hospitals across UK

HEALTH CHIEF CALLS FOR ACTION TO PROTECT STAFF AMID A ‘PROFOUND CRISIS’ IN WORKERS’ MORALE

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HERE is a ‘profound crisis’ in NHS staff morale, a health leader has said.

Sir Ciaran Devane, chief executive of NHS Alliance, which represents NHS trusts, warned that action must be taken to protect workers from abuse and discrimination.

And he said that staff should be shielded from ‘pressures created by the wider political climate’.

Frontline medics said that staff experience ‘vile behaviour’ every day, with attacks, abuse and threats now ‘commonplace’ in the NHS.

Sir Ciaran said that NHS employees from diverse backgrounds feel particularly under threat at present.

“There is a very bleak picture emerging that is one of a profound crisis in the morale of NHS staff,” said Sir Ciaran.

“Protecting staff from all forms of abuse, discrimination and as far as possible the pressures created by the wider political climate is not optional - it is essential.”

Pointing to a rise in verbal aggression, discriminatory behaviour, physical violence and sexual misconduct directed at NHS staff, Sir Ciaran added: “If we fail to safeguard the workforce, we fail patients.”

NHS Alliance has called for a national campaign on respect for NHS workers. The organisation asked health service leaders about their concerns surrounding staff morale.