HC Deb 30 June 2003 vol 408 cc15-6W
Mr. Donohoe

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to improve the protection of public sector workers against violence in their workplace. [120648]

Mr. Browne

I have been asked to reply

The Health and Safety Commission (HSC) is committed to tackling the problem of work-related violence. In March 2000 HSC embarked on a three year programme to help employers, including those in the public sector, to tackle this problem, with the aim of reducing the number of incidents of violence at work. So far the programme has resulted in the publication of new guidance specifically aimed at small businesses; the development of new National Occupational Standards on work-related violence; a programme of inspections in the health care sector; and new research to establish good practice for lone workers, including those in the public sector.

HSE officials are now evaluating this programme and will be submitting written proposals to the HSC on the next stage (2003–06) in due course.