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Paramedic Araf Saddiq has spent nearly three decades saving lives, but the threat of violence always looms over him. Saddiq has faced five physical assaults and numerous instances of verbal abuse while on duty, with one particularly traumatizing attack in 2010 that resulted in severe mental health issues and PTSD, leading him to take a two-year career break. Despite the risks, Saddiq continues his work, driven by a deep sense of duty and compassion for those in need.
Research conducted at Stirling University sheds light on the challenges faced by ambulance staff, especially when responding to alcohol-related incidents. The study interviewed 31 paramedics, technicians, and senior staff from the Scottish Ambulance Service, revealing shocking accounts of unpredictable and violent behaviors from intoxicated patients, as well as harassment from bystanders. Incidents of physical assault, biting, and chasing with knives were among the distressing experiences shared by the workers, highlighting the dangerous environment they operate in.
One harrowing night 15 years ago remains etched in Saddiq’s memory, when he was subjected to a vicious attack by a patient at Hairmyres Hospital. Despite the victim’s lack of proactive behavior during the ambulance journey, a sudden outburst of verbal abuse escalated into a physical assault, leaving Saddiq with a dislocated shoulder, broken ribs, and lasting emotional trauma. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by frontline healthcare workers and the urgent need for better support and protection.
Scottish Ambulance Service chief executive Michael Dickson acknowledged the prevalent issue of violence against ambulance crews and stressed the importance of using research findings to improve crew support and inform policy decisions. The report also called for stricter regulations to address alcohol-related incidents, suggesting measures such as limiting alcohol sale hours and implementing marketing restrictions. Despite some progress in tackling alcohol-related harms in Scotland, the risks faced by emergency workers underscore the ongoing need for enhanced safety measures and a concerted effort to address the root causes of violence in healthcare settings
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