§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps each health trust in Shropshire is taking to reduce the incidence of violence against NHS staff; and if he will make a statement. [121761]
§ Mr. DenhamWe are determined to ensure that National Health Service staff are never faced with intimidation and violence, which is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. In addition to the national 'NHS Zero Tolerance Zone' campaign, each of the three local trusts in Shropshire are taking independent action to protect staff from violent and aggressive behaviour.
The Royal Shrewsbury Hospitals NHS Trust have introduced the People Management Standards Document, which states that all staff in high risk areas will receive prevention of violence training by an approved organisation.
The Princess Royal Hospital NHS Trust have recently updated their Dealing with Violence and Aggression Policy. Measures include logging abusive incidents, and the use of a 'Safe Haven' room for patients showing extreme aggression.
Shropshire Community and Mental Health Services NHS Trust have carried out risk assessments in all work areas, to identify potential areas of weakness. Areas of activity resulting from this include additional staff training, and issuing mobile phones, pagers and personal alarms where appropriate.