Ahead of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee long weekend, the Managing Director of the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives, Martin Flaherty OBE QAM, has called for respect to all ambulance employees:
The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee provides us with the perfect opportunity to celebrate Her Majesty’s reign with parties and other social occasions, however we would like to ask people to spare a thought for busy ambulance crews who, along with other emergency services partners, will be working hard throughout the holiday period to keep people safe and well.
From experience, we know that bank holiday events where alcohol is prevalent can sometimes lead to an increased risk of violence, assault and aggression towards ambulance staff from a very small minority of people, which is completely unacceptable. Every day last year, a staggering 32 ambulance staff were abused or attacked – more than one during every hour of every day throughout the whole year, a total of 11,749 staff. These attacks have a significant and lasting impact on the staff member concerned, affecting every aspect of their life.
So our message is clear – please have respect for the ambulance staff who are trying to help you, your friends and your families over the holiday period.
We are also encouraging the public to think ahead and plan for the Jubilee holiday by ensuring they have enough medication, checking their pharmacy opening hours, ensuring they have well stocked first-aid kits, taking care in the sun, avoiding too much alcohol and keeping hydrated.
Above all, only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency and visit the 111.nhs.uk website where you’ll be directed to the most appropriate service to help you.
