Trust figures show the number of aggressive, violence and harassment (AVH) incidents almost doubled between 2021/22 and 2023/24 rising from 1,237 to 2,370.

The rising trend has continued in the first six months of 2024/25 with 1,154 incidents taking place between 1 April and 1 October 2024.

Gilbert George, director of corporate governance said: ‘The safety and wellbeing of our staff and patients is our ultimate priority. Violent and aggressive behaviour, be that against our staff or other patients or visitors, has absolutely no place in our hospitals and will not be tolerated. 

‘When our staff face aggression or sometimes even physical violence, it can have a serious impact on their shift, their day, their wellbeing and ultimately their ability to provide high quality care. 

‘We encourage our staff to always report these incidents, and we will support prosecutions against anyone found guilty of abusing our staff in any way, whilst they are at work.'

The trust introduced a red card system banning abusive patients from treatment at its sites last year and has also trialled staff bodycams.