SHOCKING statistics released by emergency services who operate in Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire have shown a rise of attacks on staff while on duty.

During 2016, paramedics from South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) were on the receiving end of more than 161 assaults, an increase of 20 per cent compared to five years ago.

Of the 140 reported incidents by crews, 50 have resulted in police intervention, including prosecutions ranging from community service orders, fines and even imprisonment.

Injuries to staff from such incidents have ranged from cuts, bruising and sprains all the way to dislocations and fractures.

David Partlow, consultant paramedic for SWASFT, said: “We take a zero tolerance approach to any form of physical or verbal abuse towards our staff, and all reports of violence and aggression are taken very seriously. We work closely with the police to seek prosecutions where possible.

“Every member of the Trust staff plays a vital role in serving the community by helping to deliver the right care in the right place at the right time and staff should be able to fulfil their life-saving role without fear of abuse or assault.”

The trust said that police, ambulance, fire and healthcare staff are regularly subjected to attacks from those they are trying to help, including verbal abuse, spitting, biting and even sexual assault.

They added that they encourage all incidents to be reported as soon as possible and have a robust reporting mechanism in place.

Staff are also supported by the SWASFT Staying Well Service which provides immediate access to numerous sources of support including specialist counselling and physiotherapy.