37 MPs back Early Day Motion to Combat Violence And Aggression Towards NHS Staff
Dozens of MPs across the political spectrum have signed a House of Commons Early Day Motion recognising the contribution of Emergency Medicine professionals – and calling for action against the rising tide of violence and aggression they face.
Led by the MP for Bath Wera Hobhouse, the motion was tabled on 2 June, following Emergency Medicine Day 2026, which took place on 27 May.
The EDM recognises the challenges faced by staff working in Emergency Departments across the UK, their valuable contributions to the health service, and the resilience they demonstrate at work.
The motion also noted the increasing levels of violence, aggression and abuse that healthcare staff are facing. This is often in the context of crowded conditions in Emergency Departments.
It recognised the impact of unsafe working conditions on staff wellbeing, workforce retention and patient care.
Further, it called for the enforcement of a zero-tolerance approach to violence and abuse against healthcare staff.
As of 16 June, a total of 37 MPs have backed the motion, with signatories from the Liberal Democrats, Labour, Plaid Cymru, the Democratic Unionist Party, the Social Democratic and Labour Party, Traditional Unionist Voice, and an independent.
The Royal College of Emergency Medicine encourages all MPs, regardless of political affiliation, to add their signatures and show their support for Emergency Medicine professionals throughout the UK.
Dr Ian Higginson, President of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, said: “Every day in this country, staff in Emergency Departments are on the receiving end of utterly vile abuse, intimidation and – all too often – physical violence.
“These are people who dedicate their working lives to helping others. They have arrived at work to save lives, yet their own wellbeing is put at risk.
“It is unacceptable and I give my heartfelt thanks to all MPs who have, to date, signed this Early Day Motion recognising this as the important issue it is.
“We need to reset our tolerance towards violence and aggression towards healthcare staff – and we need to back that up with enforcement action where appropriate.
“Too many of our members feel that employers and the authorities do not take the problem seriously. It feels as though the attitude from some is that this is just part of the job. This is a view I hear too frequently, and which I utterly reject.
“I call on all politicians to sign this motion, and to put their full weight behind measures to tackle violence and aggression towards healthcare staff.”
