Campaign helps ambulance staff deal with attacks

Ambulance staff have reported 26 incidents of violence so far in 2024

An ambulance service has launched a campaign aimed at raising awareness of increasing aggression, intimidation, and violence towards ambulance staff.

The States of Jersey Ambulance Service campaign, Work Without Fear, calls for greater respect and support for workers.

The government said, so far this year, ambulance staff had reported 26 incidents of violence, aggression, or intimidation - more than double the 14 incidents recorded in 2023, and nearly four times the number from 2022.

The service said the increase in aggression affected both the physical and mental health of staff, which in turn impacted the community's ability to receive quick and effective care.

The service said an increase in aggression affected both the physical and mental health of staff

Paramedic Eric Rolland said he was assaulted by an intoxicated patient earlier in 2024 and suffered facial injuries that required two separate surgeries and several weeks off work.

"We try and help people when they’re in need, in their time of crisis.

“The last 12 months have seen an unprecedented rise in aggression. It’s not part of the job to be assaulted."

He added: "We’re still humans, and these experiences follow us home. It plays on our minds."

Associate chief ambulance officer, Gordon Hunt, emphasised the importance of a safe working environment

As part of the campaign, ambulance vehicles will display slogans such as: "Respect saves lives," and "Aggression or intimidation is unacceptable."

Associate chief ambulance officer Gordon Hunt said: “Our ability to work safely and efficiently directly impacts the quality of care we can provide.

"We are here to help, but we need a safe environment to do so.

"Any form of aggression or intimidation is unacceptable and can have serious consequences for both responders and patients."

'Free from abuse'

In Jersey, assaulting an emergency responder can result in a fine of up to £2,000 or a prison sentence.

"The physical and emotional impact on our staff cannot be underestimated," said Peter Gavey, chief ambulance officer.

"We have the right to do our jobs free from abuse and violence.

"We cannot provide the level of care needed if we are dealing with aggression and intimidation."

Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Mary Le Hegarat said: "Aggression towards our emergency responders - and their right to work without fear of being attacked - needs to be highlighted.

"We must respect and support those who are saving lives."