Violent and abusive behaviour

In line with NHS policy, we operate a ‘Zero Tolerance’ Policy against all violent and aggressive behaviour including physical, verbal and online abuse.

Thankfully, incidents of violent, threatening or abusive behaviour are very rare in this Practice. However, such behaviour against any of our staff or patients will not be tolerated.

Any patient who is rude or abusive to any Doctor, staff or another patient may be removed from the Practice List.  Any violence, threatening behaviour or damage to property/equipment will be reported to the Police.

We aim to treat our patients with respect and courtesy at all times, and expect our patients to treat our staff in the same way.

GPs and staff have a right to care for others without fear of being attacked, abused or treated badly in any way. To successfully provide our services, a mutual respect between staff and patients has to be in place. All of our staff aim to be polite, helpful and sensitive to all patients’ individuals needs and circumstances. We would respectfully remind patients that very often staff could be confronted with a multitude of varying and sometimes difficult tasks and situations, all at the same time.

In order for the practice to maintain good relations with our patients we ask patients to read and take note of the types of behaviour that are unacceptable:

  • Verbal abuse towards staff in any form, including swearing, bad language, shouting, threats, bullying and intimidating behaviour
  • Any physical violence towards any member of our team or other patients, including pushing, spitting, objects thrown
  • Racial abuse, discrimination or sexual harassment
  • Persistent or unrealistic demands that cause stress to staff will not be accepted – requests will be met wherever possible, and explanations provided when they are unable to be met
  • Causing damage/stealing from the Practice’s premises, staff or patients
  • Obtaining drugs and/or medical services fraudulently
  • The above list is not exhaustive
  • Immediate attendance of a Police Officer will be called in the case of violence, threatening behaviour, suspicious behaviour or obvious intent to commit a crime

Date published: 10th October, 2014
Date last updated: 12th January, 2023