What is the latest on violence against South East Coast Ambulance Service staff?

Staff at Secamb reported 1,529 violence and aggression incidents between April 2024 and March 2025, an increase from previous years.

Why does Unison want paramedics to have more training?

Unison is calling for paramedics to receive further training in de-escalation and restraint due to hundreds of reported attacks on staff.

Are ambulance workers facing increasing attacks?

Yes, reports indicate a consistent rise in violence and aggression incidents against ambulance service staff over the past three years.

Home / Health / Paramedics Face Rising Violence: Training Urged

Paramedics Face Rising Violence: Training Urged

22 Dec

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Summary

Paramedic assaults have seen a consistent rise over three years.
Hundreds of attacks on ambulance staff reported annually.
Union calls for advanced de-escalation and restraint training.

Paramedics Face Rising Violence: Training Urged

Paramedic safety is a growing concern as trade unions call for improved training in de-escalation and restraint techniques. Ambulance workers have reported a significant increase in assaults over recent years, prompting urgent action. This situation highlights the challenging environment faced by frontline medical professionals.

Data from South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) reveals a disturbing trend, with staff reporting 1,529 incidents of violence and aggression between April 2024 and March 2025. This figure represents a notable rise compared to the 1,490 incidents in the preceding year and 1,312 in 2022-23.

In light of these escalating attacks, Unison's South East regional secretary has emphasized the need for enhanced skills to manage aggressive situations. Secamb NHS Foundation Trust has stated its commitment to collaborating with staff to bolster protective measures and ensure their well-being.