Health Secretary Matt Hancock moves to crack down on violence against NHS staff

As part of the crackdown, the Government will introduce a new NHS Violence Reduction Strategy.

Maximum prison sentences for assaults on emergency workers will also be doubled, from six months to a year.  

Ten of thousands of NHS staff suffer violent assaults every year, with some choosing to wear body cameras in an attempt to deter attacks and identify offenders.

In a speech to the Royal College of Nursing, Mr Hancock will set out the new plans, which will see prosecutions fast-tracked, greater scrutiny of violence reduction measures, improved training and a new recording system.   

The Health Secretary said; "We will not shy away from the issue. We want to empower staff and give them greater confidence to report violence, knowing that they will see meaningful action from trusts and a consistent prosecution approach from the judicial system."

Royal College of Nursing National Officer, Kim Sunley added: "Nurses and health care workers understand their roles aren't risk-free but - to many - it still seems as if the threat of physical violence is a daily reality.

"These measures are another way to change this for good by increasing the accountability of employers for the safety of their staff, and ensuring those who wilfully assault healthcare workers feel the full force of the law."

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