Story perspectives

Shocking 295,711 Violence Incidents Against NHS Staff Revealed

1/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Guardian published an investigation that found 295,711 alleged incidents of violence and sexual harm against NHS staff in England from 2022 to 2025.
Incidents reached 104,079 in 2024-25.
Mental health trusts recorded the highest incidents, with Cumbria Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust reporting 17,793 cases.
Experts say figures are higher due to underreporting, and NHS England has introduced a sexual safety charter to improve staff training.

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Story summary

The Guardian published an investigation that found 295,711 alleged incidents of violence and sexual harm against NHS staff in England from 2022 to 2025.
Incidents reached 104,079 in 2024-25.
Mental health trusts recorded the highest incidents, with Cumbria Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust reporting 17,793 cases.
Experts say figures are higher due to underreporting, and NHS England has introduced a sexual safety charter to improve staff training.