SHOCK tactics are being deployed by a hospital trust in a bid to keep their staff safe this winter.

Patients, relatives and members of the public are being urged to refrain from acts of violence or aggression made towards NHS employees as statistics show a year-on-year increase in the number of incidents reported.

Last month, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust launched its Respect campaign featuring the children of its health care workers asking members of the public to keep their parents safe at work.

As part of the latest phase of the initiative, the Trust has confirmed there were 296 reported incidents at its centres in 2018 – a notable increase on the figure reported in the previous year.

Evidence taken nationally in the North-East suggests violent acts made towards NHS staff is on the increase, with Trusts attempting to raise awareness of the threat employees can face.

Julie Gillon, chief executive at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust said: “I am committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all staff who work within my trust.

"This includes protecting them whilst they deliver care to the people of North Tees and Hartlepool.

"Unfortunately there has been an increase in reported incidents of violence and I hope the latest element of this campaign acts as a reminder to members of the public that staff work incredibly hard and it is completely unacceptable for them to be subject to any form of violence or aggression.”

As the winter period approaches, the Trust expects to see a sharp rise in admissions and activity in its emergency department.

During the period of increased pressure across all services, it is hoped staff are allowed to carry out their work and treat patients with respect.

With a zero tolerance approach to violence and aggression, the Trust hopes this campaign will support its mission to protect staff, patients and visitors.