Security guard lifts lid on hospital violence

ATTACKS at work are 'part of the job' according to a security worker at Scunthorpe General Hospital.

Kevin Deakin, who has worked at Scunthorpe General Hospital for 18-months, has been kicked, verbally abused and grabbed by angry patients and public.

Mr Deakin, a former army radio communications specialist, said the CCTV which is in operation throughout the hospital helps him feel safe and cuts down on the number of assaults.

"I have been physically attacked a few times but it's part of the job, I'm there to get between other members of staff and whoever is causing a problem and diffuse the situation," he said.

"I have felt threatened but I do have a military background and most of the time I feel safe at work.

"The whole hospital is covered by CCTV which I think helps cut down on the number of incidents and provides staff with extra protection."

Mr Deakin spoke out about his experiences as part of a month-long drive by the hospital to boost awareness of employee security.

The aim of Security Awareness Month is to prevent experiences like Mr Deakin's and make sure abuse is not 'part of the job' for any healthcare workers.

Security officers are on-site at the hospital 24/7 and the facility also has a local security management specialist (LSMS), Jug Johal, who said safety fears are a common concern for staff.

"It is something people come to me about, I am determined to keep our hospitals safe and secure for patients and staff– the NHS should be a safe place to work, not a place for antisocial and criminal activity," said Mr Johal.

"It is completely unacceptable staff suffer violence and abuse from those they are trying to help and action will be taken against offenders, we have prosecuted before and we will do again."

For the full story, buy today's Scunthorpe Telegraph.