Hundreds of NHS workers in Wiltshire have spoken about abuse they face at work as part of a police campaign highlighting violence against frontline staff.
Wiltshire Police said it surveyed around six hundred hospital workers through its Never Ok campaign, which focuses on violence, harassment and aggression directed at healthcare staff.
Officers, including liaison officer PC Becky Berni and trainee colleagues, spoke directly with staff to understand the scale and impact of the problem.
PC Becky Berni said: “We wanted to really listen to staff about the problems they are facing.
“Many of them told us they feel expected to tolerate verbal aggression, physical violence, and, in some cases, sexual assault.
“This has a serious impact on their wellbeing with some living in fear of what they might face during a shift.
“While a small number of incidents involve patients whose illness affects their capacity, most acts of violence are deliberate. And we know the impact is profound.
“Trauma lingers. It shapes how people feel at work, how they recover after each shift, and how they’re able to care for others when they’re constantly bracing for the next threat.
“We are told the level of involvement here in Wiltshire is much higher than anywhere else in the UK. These are victims, and they deserve recognition and support.
“We believe that when staff feel protected, valued, and safe, our hospitals can become the safe and compassionate environments they are meant to be—for everyone.”
National Health Service staff were also told about new measures being developed to help them recognise criminal behaviour and access support after incidents.
Wiltshire Police said it has created a training programme designed to help hospital workers respond when they experience violence, harassment or abuse.
“Our priority isn’t to criminalise those who lack capacity,” PC Berni added.
“It’s about ensuring victims are acknowledged and supported. Tackling this issue requires cultural change, better reporting systems, and proactive measures to protect NHS staff.”
Anyone who has witnessed or been the victim of crime is urged to report it by calling 101 or through the force’s website. In an emergency, people should always call 999.
