New legal measures aimed at safeguarding National Health Service (NHS) staff from disruptive behaviour have been implemented in Wales. These changes introduce a specific offence for causing nuisance or disturbance on NHS premises, allowing police and authorized NHS personnel to remove individuals who engage in such conduct.
The definition of disruptive behaviour encompasses various actions, including verbal abuse, obstructing corridors, preventing staff from performing their duties, and creating excessive noise in waiting areas, wards, and other hospital spaces. Importantly, these powers do not apply to patients seeking medical advice, treatment, or care for themselves. Individuals causing a nuisance who refuse to leave when requested by staff or police and are not present to receive medical care can be affected by these new provisions.
Objective of the New Legislation
The recent legal changes are part of the broader framework established under the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008. The primary goal of these laws is to protect NHS staff, patients, and visitors, ensuring that essential services can operate without interruptions. The police now possess the authority to remove anyone suspected of committing an offence, utilizing reasonable force if necessary.
These measures were developed collaboratively with the Anti-Violence Collaborative, police forces, the Crown Prosecution Service, NHS Wales organizations, and trade unions.
The urgency for these changes is underscored by findings from the All-Wales NHS Staff Survey, which revealed a concerning decline in staff feeling safe from abuse by patients and the public. The percentage of staff who reported feeling secure dropped from 83.6 percent to 74.8 percent in recent assessments.
Statements from Officials
Jeremy Miles, the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, emphasized the importance of these new powers in enhancing workplace safety. He stated, “These powers strengthen protections for our NHS staff and help ensure that our hospitals and healthcare settings remain safe for staff and patients where care can flourish. This is about safety, dignity and supporting the workforce.”
Miles further clarified that the legislation does not criminalize individuals seeking necessary medical care. Rather, it aims to create an environment where NHS staff can perform their roles without fear, allowing patients to receive treatment in secure and calm settings.
As these new regulations take effect, the focus remains on fostering a safe healthcare environment that prioritizes the well-being of both staff and patients.
