BURT BACKS 'ZERO TOLERANCE' CALL FOR VIOLENCE AGAINST HOSPITAL STAFF

9.56.21pm GMT Wed 28th Feb 2007

Solihull's MP, Lorely Burt has reacted with shock to the reported level of violence against staff at Heartlands Hospital. More than four assaults are reported by hospitals and GPs in Birmingham and Solihull every day, with unprecedented levels of violence aimed at doctors and nurses.

The figures were revealed after BBC Panorama programme makers were given behind the scenes access at Heartlands and the Royal Infirmary in Edinburgh to capture acts of violence on film.

Heartlands co-operated with the film makers to expose the dangers that staff faced on a daily basis.

Lorely Burt MP said:

"I was shocked to hear of the scale of violence aimed at doctors ad nurses as they try to go about their jobs, treating people and administering medical care. It seems particularly perverse that they should be at risk of attack within a hospital.

"On recent visits to Heartlands and Solihull hospitals I have noticed posters warning of zero tolerance towards intimidation or violence from patients and threatening to refuse medical care as a result of attack.

"I fully support this campaign and feel that staff should be within their rights to refuse treatment to patients who are wilfully abusive or violent towards them."