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GMB welcomes consultation on tougher sentencing for attacks on emergency workers

GMB, the union for ambulance workers, has welcomed a consultation on tougher sentencing for those who attack emergency workers.

More than eight attacks are recorded on ambulance workers each day, according to figures obtained by GMB under the Freedom of Information Act.

The union’s Protect the Protectors Campaign was instrumental in the introduction of the Offences against Emergency Service Workers Legislation – which gave judges more scope for tougher sentences against those who attacked ambulance worker.

But since the law has changed, GMB has been disappointed with the number of criminal convictions resulting from attacks against emergency service workers.

Rachel Harrison, GMB National Officer, said:

“No one should go to work to help others and fear being assaulted themselves.

“Tougher sentences are needed to send a clear message that this behaviour is not acceptable.

“GMB will submit evidence to this consultation and we expect the Government to act now. This cannot just be a paper exercise with no real increase protection for our members.”