Ambulances to get CCTV to crackdown on paramedic attacks - The Stratford Observer

Ambulances to get CCTV to crackdown on paramedic attacks

Stratford Editorial 4th Mar, 2016 Updated: 28th Oct, 2016   0

CCTV cameras are set to be fitted in ambulances in a crackdown on attacks suffered by paramedics.

A recent report revealed West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS)  frontline staff were the target of an alarming rise in physical and verbal attacks, and even sexual assaults.

WMAS chiefs have now agreed to fit cameras to their fleet in a bid to deter attacks and to use the footage to help prosecute perpetrators.

A WMAS spokesperson told The Observer: “We have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to attacks on our staff, be they verbal or physical.




“By having CCTV on our new fleet of ambulances, it means the safety of our staff is significantly improved and we have more power to bring those perpetrators who attack our staff and vehicles to justice.”

Many of the attacks were alcohol-related.


Steve Elliker, WMAS’s head of security and safety, said the attacks were “completely unacceptable”.

He added: “Sadly, violence against our staff is something that happens every week. Very often there is a link between alcohol and the attacks.

“We will do everything possible to bring the full weight of the law to bear on anyone who attacks our staff.”

CCTV cameras have already been in operation in other areas including the neighbouring East Midlands service.

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