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A recent survey has revealed that the levels of harassment, bullying, and violence experienced by NHS staff in England have surged to unprecedented heights. Conducted in 2025, the findings indicate that over a quarter of healthcare professionals reported such distressing incidents, marking the highest figures recorded in the past three years. With the NHS employing approximately 1.5 million individuals, this translates to about 380,000 staff members being subjected to harassment and over 217,000 experiencing violence from patients or the public.
Escalating Incidents of Violence
The NHS staff survey highlights a troubling trend, with one in seven employees experiencing violence in the workplace. This alarming statistic underscores the precarious environment that many healthcare professionals face daily. The report also reveals that sexual harassment incidents have reached new highs, with nearly one in ten NHS workers, including a shocking third of ambulance staff, reporting unwanted sexual behaviour over the past year.
Despite these troubling statistics, a significant issue persists: underreporting of incidents. While 75% of those surveyed indicated they would report violent encounters, only half expressed the same willingness when it came to harassment or bullying. This discrepancy suggests that many incidents may go unreported, perpetuating a cycle of abuse and fear among staff members.
Discrimination and Racism in the Workplace
The survey further exposes the alarming levels of racism and discrimination within the NHS. One in five Black and minority ethnic staff reported experiencing abuse, bullying, or harassment from patients, a stark contrast to just one in twenty of their white counterparts. Additionally, one in seven Black and minority ethnic staff indicated they had faced similar negative behaviour from colleagues or management, a figure that is twice the rate experienced by white employees.
These findings are particularly concerning, as nearly one in ten workers reported facing discrimination from patients or the public while at work, the highest level ever recorded. The implications of these statistics not only highlight the need for immediate action but also suggest a deeper systemic issue within the healthcare system that must be addressed.
Responses to the Crisis
Prominent figures within the healthcare sector have voiced their concerns regarding these findings. Professor Nicola Ranger, General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, described the results as a “torrent of violence, sexual assaults, discrimination, and abuse” that nursing and NHS staff routinely encounter. She emphasised the urgent need for action, stating that the increasing violence against predominantly female staff is a “national emergency for staff safety.”
Sarah Woolnough, Chief Executive of The King’s Fund, echoed these sentiments, stressing that hostility cannot be tolerated within a healthcare environment. She pointed out that while patients may experience frustrations within the system, this should never justify discrimination against NHS staff, who have a fundamental right to work without fear of abuse.
Danny Mortimer, Director General for People at NHS England, acknowledged the “deeply worrying” nature of the statistics and pledged to enhance support for NHS workers. He reiterated the importance of ensuring that all employees feel empowered to report any unwanted incidents without fear of repercussions.
Why it Matters
The findings from the 2025 NHS staff survey serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in England. The rising tide of violence, harassment, and discrimination not only jeopardises the well-being of NHS staff but also threatens the integrity of the healthcare system itself. As the nation grapples with the implications of these alarming statistics, it is imperative that robust measures are implemented to safeguard the safety and dignity of those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. The call for change has never been more urgent, and a collective response from all stakeholders is essential to foster a safer working environment for NHS staff.
