Violence and Aggression – Support and Guidance

We are committed to ensuring that everyone feels safe at work. Violence and aggression can have a significant impact, not only physically but also emotionally, and it’s essential that the right support is available when it’s needed.

This page outlines what action should be taken following an incident, how colleagues can be supported, and when additional help such as Occupational Health may be appropriate.

1. What to do if an incident occurs

If a colleague experiences or is affected by violence or aggression, the immediate priority is their safety and wellbeing. Managers should check in with the individual as soon as possible, offer reassurance and ensure they feel supported.

All incidents must be reported via Datix. This is a key step, as it allows incidents to be formally recorded, reviewed and investigated, helping the organisation to take action and reduce the risk of future occurrences.

It’s also important to be aware that some incidents may meet the criteria for RIDDOR reporting (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations). This includes more serious cases such as injuries resulting in over 7 days absence, significant physical harm, or certain dangerous occurrences. If you believe an incident may be RIDDOR reportable, please contact the Health and Safety Team for advice at HealthandSafety@liverpoolft.nhs.uk

More info on what happens after the Datix report is submitted:

Once a report has been submitted, the Security Management Team will review the incident and provide guidance in line with policy to both the reporter and the relevant manager. They will assess what follow up actions are required, which may include issuing warnings to those involved or putting additional protective measures in place.

Where there is a pattern of repeated behaviour, appropriate alerts may also be added to patient records to help protect staff and reduce future risk. Colleagues also have the right to raise any concerns or challenge decisions made as part of the process.

2. Supporting colleagues via stepped approach

Not all incidents will require formal referral to Occupational Health. A stepped approach is recommended, where initial support is provided at a local level before considering further escalation.

Initial steps for managers:

In the first instance, managers should take a supportive and proactive approach:

• Check in with the colleague and offer support
• Ensure the incident has been reported via Datix
• Signpost to appropriate self referral services, such as physiotherapy or psychological support, where needed

3. When to refer to Occupational Health

An Occupational Health referral should be considered where additional or more specialist support is required, particularly where health, attendance or the ability to work have been impacted.

This includes situations where:

• A colleague is off work long term or the incident is RIDDOR reportable
• Symptoms are ongoing or getting worse, including injury, anxiety or trauma
• Support is needed to return to work safely, such as phased return or adjustments
• There are concerns about the colleague’s ability to carry out their role safely

To support this, a new Violence and Aggression category has been introduced within the Occupational Health referral system. This will help ensure colleagues receive targeted support and allows the organisation to better understand and respond to incidents across the Group.

4. Prevention and creating a safer environment

Managing violence and aggression is not only about responding to incidents but also about preventing them where possible. This is achieved through strong risk management, training and ongoing review.

Everyone has a role to play in maintaining a safe environment. This includes:

• Completing and regularly reviewing General Workplace Risk Assessments, identifying areas of potential risk
• Ensuring staff are up to date with mandatory and specialist training, such as Ikon training (More info can be found here)
• Reporting incidents consistently so that trends can be identified and addressed
• Supporting investigations and learning, including reviewing what actions can be taken to reduce future risk

In addition to this, Security teams may carry out local security risk assessments, particularly in higher risk areas, to identify practical measures that can help reduce the likelihood of incidents.

Further guidance and practical advice on preventing violence and aggression in the workplace is available from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), including recommended control measures and employer responsibilities. View HSE guidance here.

5. Policies and Guidance