Thursday 24 April 2025
RCEM responds to AACE data which reveals more than 22,500 ambulance staff were assaulted in 24/25.
Responding to new data released today (24 April 2025) by the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) which reveals more than 22,500 ambulance staff were assaulted between 1 April 2024 and 31 May 2025, Dr Ian Higginson, President-Elect of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine said: “No one, especially those whose primary role is to help and care for people, should live in fear of violence of aggression at work, but sadly this is a daily occurrence for many frontline staff working in Emergency Care.
“It’s one of the reasons staff are choosing to leave their jobs, and NHS staff would need convincing that the NHS has its back on this issue. Bland assurances and policies don’t stop aggressive and violent behaviour
“Violence must never be considered ‘just part of the job’ and we support AACE in its call for more to be done to address this issue and its on-going #WorkWithoutFear campaign.
“The type and rise in the number of incidents revealed by this new data is both shocking and deeply worrying. It’s a reflection of disturbing cultural changes
“Any assault on a healthcare professional is one too many, and we must collectively act on this behaviour within our health system, ensuring that staff are protected, all incidents are reported, every victim is properly supported, and those responsible are held to account in a meaningful way.”
