MORE than 1,000 instances of aggression or violence against NHS Borders staff were recorded last year according to data.

Figures obtained via a Freedom of Information (FOI) request showed victims included temporary staff and students.

Almost 770 involved physical aggression, with two involving weapons, and around 250 cases involved verbal abuse.

Eight of the incidents were deemed to be so serious they had to be reported under RIDDOR regulations, a programme for recording serious injuries such as fractures, scalding and a loss of consciousness.

A spokesperson for NHS Borders said: “It is normal to feel anxious if you or your loved one is waiting to get treatment or help, but please remember that our staff are there to help you, not to be abused.

 “During the period March 2021–March 2022 there have been more than 1,000 reported instances of violence or aggression against our staff. That is over 1,000 times that a valued member of our hard-working team has experienced abuse whilst trying to do their job.

“Our staff show up each and every day to care for others and they should be able to do so without fear of harm or aggression.

“We work in partnership with Safer Communities Antisocial Behaviour Unit and Police Scotland to reduce and address instances of violence and aggression, both physical and verbal, towards our staff and any instance of this behaviour is taken very seriously.

“If you need support or treatment from our health professionals, whether you are on a waiting list or sitting in our waiting areas, out in the community or in hospital, please remember to be patient and be kind.

“It is important to note that there are instances of aggression that can occur as a result of a patient’s condition and our staff are trained and supported to manage these.”