Follow up statement regarding unacceptable sexualised behaviour in the ambulance sector

14/11/2024

Today Sky News has published a follow up report on their investigation into inappropriate sexual behaviour in the UK ambulance sector, the original report in July  highlighted a pervasive culture of sexual harassment and misogyny. The report today focuses on the prevalence of data from the Health and Care Professions Council and the fact that 1 in 5 cases reported to the regulator pertain to behaviour that is directed towards patients. 

This behaviour is completely unacceptable and undermines the safety and wellbeing of those dedicated to improving and saving lives.   We know that the majority of paramedics and clinicians treat the vulnerability of patients with utmost integrity, but for a minority, it provides an opportunity to breach that trust and confidence in the most heinous way. 

The College of Paramedics continues to engage with members’ concerns and experiences through our ongoing listening events where members have spoken to us in a safe and confidential space. Since 2020 we have met with hundreds of members, including our student paramedics, and the College has worked with the HCPC, the Health Services Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB), the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) and NHS England to support the change in culture needed to end unacceptable behaviour in the sector. The College also presents a real-life example from our listening events at the opening of every Cultural Review Group which follows on from the report published by Siobhan Melia on ambulance culture.

If you have been affected by the issues raised in this report there are organisations who can help

Member’s of the ambulance staff workforce can contact The Ambulance Staff Charity (TASC) 24/7 Ambulance Staff Crisis Phoneline for immediate support on 0300 373 0898. It is completely independent and confidential.  

England and Wales 
Rape Crisis line is also for other forms of sexual assault or harassment: 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line Tel: 0808 500 2222 

Northern Ireland 
Helpline - Nexus NI 

Scotland 

Rape Crisis Scotland | Working to end sexual violence  

Jersey 
JAAR – Jersey Action Against Rape – Preventing and healing the trauma of rape and sexual abuse 

Students 

I need support - combatmisconduct