The motion calls on the Mayor of London, employers and the Metropolitan Police to do more to protect healthcare staff, improve support for those affected, and ensure perpetrators face robust consequences for their actions.  

The motion was tabled by Krupesh Hirani, London Assembly Member for Brent and Harrow, who described violence and aggression towards healthcare workers in London as "endemic". During the debate, he highlighted the daily abuse faced by frontline healthcare staff and referenced RCN London analysis showing that nursing staff from Black African and Asian backgrounds are disproportionately affected.  

Seconding the motion, Elly Baker, Londonwide Member of the London Assembly, spoke about the serious impact that violence and aggression can have on staff wellbeing and retention. She warned that abuse and intimidation could discourage new young people from pursuing frontline healthcare careers and praised RCN London for "tirelessly researching and raising awareness of this growing crisis". 

The motion was passed unanimously by Assembly Members. In March, the London Assembly Health Committee hosted a one off session on the issue of violence and abuse against health care staff and RCN London gave evidence.  

Following the vote, RCN London Director Lisa Elliott welcomed the decision but stressed that action must now follow words. 

"Today's motion is an important and welcome show of support from the London Assembly, but nursing staff across London now need to see political commitment translated into meaningful action. 

"The Mayor of London, employers, the police and politicians across the capital all have a responsibility to do more to protect nursing staff and create safer working environments.  This motion must be a catalyst for change. Warm words alone will not keep nursing staff safe." 

RCN London continues to campaign for coordinated action to address the growing crisis of violence and aggression in healthcare settings and is calling on employers, police and political leaders to work together to make workplaces safer for nursing staff.

Find out more 
A link to the full motion is available here and you can view the debate here.  

Have you experienced violence and aggression? Check out what support the RCN provides: 
If you need help, contact RCN Direct for advice.

Read our violence in the workplace advice guide.

Read the Post-Incident Support Framework.

Counselling is available via RCN Member Support Services.