Greater protection for Shropshire emergency workers is welcomed

In West Mercia alone, there have been 162 violent incidents against police officers and staff from April-June, equating to almost two every day. For the same period, West Midlands Ambulance Service workers in West Mercia were physically assaulted 21 times.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion, who has campaigned extensively for more to be done at a national level to tackle violence against the police, has backed the Assaults on Emergency Workers Bill throughout.

The change in the law makes certain offences aggravated when committed against emergency workers, giving courts the power to impose stronger sentences, doubling the maximum sentence for an assault against an emergency worker from six to 12 months in prison.

Mr Campion said: “I have campaigned long and hard for these changes to happen, and the law change is a mammoth step forward for all emergency workers. I am pleased to see the government taking this seriously. Not only will it protect police officers and other emergency workers but it will act as a deterrent for those who would commit these offences.

"We mustn’t forget that behind the badge, police officers and other emergency workers are ordinary people doing extraordinary jobs. Our communities have an important role to play in ensuring this is recognised and we treat emergency workers with the respect they deserve. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this legislation change will have.”

Threats

West Mercia Police Assistant Chief Constable Geoff Wessell said: "Our men and women are out in our communities day and night, often dealing with very difficult and challenging situations and putting themselves in harm’s way. They certainly do not deserve to be subject to abuse, threats or assaults and I very much welcome the additional protection that this new bill gives them."

Kevin Brandstatter, GMB National Officer, said: "It is difficult to put into words what this will mean for the hundreds of thousands of emergency service workers who have been assaulted in the line of duty.

"Action is long overdue. At least eight ambulance workers are attacked every day, and the threat of violence is forcing many experienced professionals out of the NHS.

"Our members who spoke out and secured this change in the law have demonstrated the very highest standards of bravery.

"The victory must be followed up with a Government publicity campaign and proper enforcement action to make sure that those who attack emergency workers are brought to justice."