Press release: Emergency service workers must be supported

In a Westminster Hall debate today Glasgow East MP David Linden has called on the UK Government to ensure that frontline emergency service workers are protected and supported during the COVID-19 public health crisis.

This debate comes as reports that almost 1000 hospital staff attacked in lockdown by patients and visitors, with many needing medical treatment.

In addition, reports highlight that 721 police officers attacked, with 264 receiving injuries from being punched, spat at, slashed and bitten by members of the public.

An increase in violent attacks against staff, have been reported over the pandemic period, at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. The Health Board reported 2,293 attacks against staff since March of this year, including 68 incidents in the first 5 days of August.

On 13 July 2020, the UK Ministry of Justice launched a consultation on doubling the maximum penalty for assaulting an emergency worker from 12 months to 2 years in prison in England and Wales.

Challenging the Government in the House of Commons today, Glasgow East MP David Linden said the UK Government must "do all in its power" to protect and support emergency services workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking from the House of Commons, David Linden MP said:

"During the COVID-19 crisis our frontline workers faced unprecedented challenges – a once in a lifetime pandemic that has spread across the globe, affecting almost every facet of our lives.

"Our NHS and emergency service staff have responded with courage during this Public Health Crisis, we have to thank them for their bravery and determination during this time.

"I particularly want to thank all of the frontline workers in my constituency for their hard work during the pandemic. I am very grateful for their service to the community.

"It is important that the UK Government do all in its power to ensure that NHS and all emergency service workers are protected in their roles, that abuse is not tolerated and that the relevant support is in place for those who need it – that is the best way to thank them for their life-saving work during the COVID-19 pandemic.