Hundreds of NHS workers in Wiltshire have reported experiencing abuse while carrying out their jobs, according to a new police survey highlighting the scale of violence and harassment faced by frontline healthcare staff.
Wiltshire Police surveyed around 600 hospital workers as part of its Never Ok campaign, which aims to challenge the idea that abuse is an accepted part of working in healthcare.
The survey found that many staff have been subjected to verbal aggression, physical violence and, in some cases, sexual assault, with some saying they feel expected to tolerate such behaviour as part of their role.
PC Becky Berni, a Wiltshire Police liaison officer who led the engagement alongside trainee officers, said the findings revealed a troubling culture.
“We wanted to really listen to staff about the problems they are facing,” she said. “Many 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 medical condition affects their capacity, police say the majority of abusive behaviour reported was deliberate.
PC Berni said the long-term impact on staff should not be underestimated.
“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.”
She added that officers had been told the level of engagement and reporting in Wiltshire was higher than elsewhere in the UK, underlining the scale of the issue locally.
“These are victims, and they deserve recognition and support. When staff feel protected, valued and safe, hospitals can become the safe and compassionate environments they are meant to be—for everyone.”
In response, Wiltshire Police have developed a training programme for hospital staff, designed to help them identify criminal behaviour, understand their rights and access appropriate support when abuse occurs.
“Our priority isn’t to criminalise those who lack capacity,” PC Berni said. “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.”
Wiltshire Police are urging anyone who has witnessed or experienced abuse or violence to report it by calling 101 or via the force’s website. In an emergency, members of the public should always call 999.
