Responding to new survey data from the Royal College of Emergency Medicine revealing three quarters of A&E staff witness violence and aggression every week, BMA consultants committee emergency medicine lead Dr Den Langhor said: 

"No healthcare worker should have to brace themselves for violence or abuse as they do their absolute best, under immense pressure, to care for others. Extremely long waits and overcrowded A&Es can cause huge frustration for patients, but that can never justify abuse or intimidation of staff. 

"The new NHS staff standards introduced this summer mean employers are now accountable for tackling such violence against staff - and these stark figures show there is a long way to go. Hospital trusts must take urgent, meaningful action to create the safe working environment all staff are entitled to."

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.