§ Mrs. Iris RobinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to provide greater funding to increase the personal security of medical staff. [138973]
774W
§ Angela SmithI refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 12 November 2003,Official Report, column 375W.
The Department is concerned about violent attacks against all staff working in the Health and Personal Social Services (HPSS) and regards such incidents as totally unacceptable. The Department has encouraged employers to review their risk assessments with a view to identifying and reducing the potential for violence against HPSS staff.
In addition, the Department intends to mount a publicity campaign in the near future to make it abundantly clear that aggressive and violent behaviour against any HPSS personnel will not be tolerated. It is intended that this campaign will cover both staff who are employed directly by HSS Boards and Trusts and General Medical and Dental Practitioners, who are independent contractors working within the Health and Personal Social Services.