Calls have been made for a zero tolerance approach to aggression against NHS workers in Blackpool after new figures showed 456 incidents of violence against staff were reported during 2023/24.
A meeting was held to discuss the rise in violent incidents and a campaign was launched to protect healthcare workers.
NHS staff in Blackpool are facing an unprecedented level of violence with the latest figures revealing a staggering 456 reported incidents in the past year alone.
Hospital chiefs and local leaders have joined forces to condemn the attacks and have demanded a zero-tolerance approach to protect staff and ensure a safe working environment.
'The safety and wellbeing of our staff is our top priority', said a hospital spokesperson.
'Violence against our staff will not be tolerated and we are working with our partners to stamp out this unacceptable behavior and bring those responsible to justice'.
Local authorities have also weighed in on the issue, pledging their support for a zero-tolerance policy to protect NHS workers.
Figures show that the 456 reported incidents of violence against NHS staff in Blackpool represent a significant increase on the previous year and have sparked widespread concern among hospital officials and local residents.
The shocking statistics have also sparked a renewed debate about the safety and security of healthcare workers, with many calling for greater protection and support for staff on the frontline.
In a bid to address the issue, a number of measures have been put in place to boost security at hospitals in Blackpool, including increased CCTV surveillance and the presence of security personnel.
Meanwhile, a campaign has been launched to raise awareness of the importance of respecting NHS staff and the devastating impact of violence on individuals and teams.
The campaign is urging the public to treat NHS staff with respect and kindness and to report any incidents of violence or aggression to the authorities.
As the debate over NHS staff safety continues to rage, one thing is clear - something needs to be done to protect our healthcare heroes and ensure they can provide the best possible care for their patients without fear of attack or harm.