Abuse of Staff Posted or Updated on 3 Nov 2023

Abuse? #notinadayswork. Yes to making calls and referring to services. No to taking abuse.

Sadly, NHS staff across Kent and Medway are reporting more and more incidents of the abuse they face when they go into work.

In an open letter signed by chief executives from all NHS trusts in Kent and Medway, people are asked to be kind to NHS staff.

The letter says: “The overwhelming majority of our patients, clients and service users are respectful of the years of training and the skills healthcare professionals have developed so they can care for others.

People understand the caring and compassionate nature that makes someone want to work for the NHS; whether they are clinicians or in support roles.

It goes on to talk about the commitment to high-quality care all NHS partners have and that while it is a small minority of people who behave this way towards NHS staff, the consequences can be far reaching.

“We understand the frustration when you may have to wait a little longer at a clinic appointment, urgent treatment centre or emergency department, or when you may not be able to get through to a GP practice on the phone.

“Some people don’t understand why we are still asking them to wear masks in healthcare settings when they don’t wish to do so. We also know others don’t wish to participate in the Covid-19 vaccination programme. The second is a personal choice; the first keeps our staff safer.

“However, what we cannot accept is abuse – verbal or physical – towards our workforce. They are there to help, not be abused.’’

You can find out more at: https://www.kentandmedwayccg.nhs.uk/news-and-events/news