Demand for paramedic safety training following assaults

Amid a troubling rise in assaults on ambulance workers, there is growing demand for improved safety training for paramedics. The Unison union is urging for more extensive training in de-escalation and restraint techniques after reports revealed a concerning increase in violent incidents on duty. In the South East, South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) recorded 1,529 cases of aggression or violence between April 2024 and March 2025, marking a notable rise from the previous year. The union emphasizes the need for stronger safety measures, as well as both physical and psychological support for paramedics facing abuse, while Secamb reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding staff and collaborating with law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable.

Following a surge in violent incidents against ambulance service personnel, a union is calling for enhanced training in de-escalation and restraint methods for paramedics. Reports indicate that paramedics are facing an alarming number of assaults while on duty.

According to Maggi Ferncombe, regional secretary of the Unison union for the South East, the violence encountered by ambulance workers has reached "unacceptable" levels. Between April 2024 and March 2025, South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) reported 1,529 incidents of aggression or violence, a slight increase from the previous year's total of 1,490, and a significant rise from 1,312 cases in 2022-23.

Secamb NHS Foundation Trust has pledged to work closely with its staff to improve safety measures and protect them from such incidents. However, Unison insists that more effective collaboration is needed between management, health and safety teams, and training programs to address confrontational situations effectively.

The union also emphasized the need for both physical and psychological support for those who have been assaulted while working. Jenny Young, a Secamb paramedic, shared her personal experience of being physically attacked on duty. She highlighted the severe long-term psychological effects of workplace violence, stating, "A few minutes of abuse can lead to years of mental distress and emotional suffering."

Another Secamb paramedic, Declan-Lee O'Leary, noted that the holiday season, especially Christmas, often exacerbates stress levels among the public, leading to longer wait times for ambulance services. He explained, "Frustration can be misdirected at our call handlers and frontline staff, making an already challenging job even harder. Abuse and disrespect only worsen the situation."

Unison reiterated its call for comprehensive support for paramedics who face physical or verbal abuse while on the job. Secamb acknowledged the lasting effects such incidents can have on its staff and reaffirmed its commitment to taking a firm stance against such behavior. A spokesperson stated, "We will not tolerate this kind of aggression and encourage all employees to report any incidents so that proper investigations can take place."

Secamb also emphasized its ongoing cooperation with law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators of violence against emergency workers are held accountable. Sussex Police reassured the public that any reports of abuse or violence against emergency personnel will be taken seriously, with perpetrators facing consequences. Authorities from Surrey Police and Kent Police have also been reached for comment.

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Sources:

• Call for paramedic safety training after attacks

Author: Lucas Grant
Lucas Grant is a sports journalist with extensive experience covering football and basketball championships. Known for factual accuracy and an engaging, dynamic writing style.