The first ever national training syllabus to tackle violence against frontline staff in mental health and learning disability services was launched yesterday by the NHS Security Management Service (NHS SMS), press release here.
And on 17th October, NHS Greater Glasgow launched a zero tolerance campaign against violent patients - in which nurses will be trained in close combat skills, according to this report in the Scotsman. Also, following unacceptable violence or aggression a formal written warning 'Yellow Card' will be issued. If the behaviour continues a 'Red Card' will be issued which would exclude the patient from receiving treatment on that particular occasion. Each case will be reviewed every time the patient returns for treatment.
Both initiatives make the links between alcohol and violence towards NHS staff. They appear to be good opportunities to engage health partners in local alcohol strategy.
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