Security Awareness Week

Date published: 16/06/2006

A new stand to help tackle violence and aggression towards hospital staff and give extra protection to lone workers has been launched at Rochdale Infirmary.

New guidelines – called "Managing violence and aggression, protecting lone workers against violence – have now been updated for all the hospitals in the Pennine Acute Trust, including at Rochdale Infirmary.

Pennine Acute Trust runs North Manchester General Hospital, Fairfield General Hospital, Bury, the Royal Oldham Hospital, and Rochdale Infirmary.

Mike Meehan, security and car parking manager, said: "Nearly all our patients and visitors treat staff with dignity and respect. However, the Trust is committed to preventing violent and aggressive behaviour and will investigate all incidents and take appropriate action where necessary."

Recently, the Trust successfully won compensation from a woman following an incident at one of its hospitals, when damage was caused to a door following an incident in the A&E department.

The launch is part of a wider security awareness week, when the hospital will be highlighting a range of security issues, including protecting NHS staff, buildings and equipment, as well as helping to stop theft and car crime.

Mike added: "Each day of the week has a different theme, from conflict resolution to car parking and environmental security. The local police will also be on hand to give out more specialist advice and information. 

"While aimed mainly at staff, patients and visitors to the hospital are welcome to come along to the stand to find out more and pick up general security advice."