Operation Cavell: Crackdown on Attacks Against NHS Workers
A new joint effort between the NHS, Metropolitan Police, and Crown Prosecution Service aims to slam the brakes on violent assaults against frontline health workers.
The pilot scheme, Operation Cavell, will target attacks on NHS staff across five London boroughs with a sharp focus on improving prosecution rates.
Shocking Rise in Violence Against NHS Staff
Violent assaults on health and social care workers have soared, being three times higher than in other sectors over the past three years. Unison data reveals a staggering 56,000+ physical attacks on NHS workers nationwide.
Michael Holland, Medical Director at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Our staff should be able to come to work without fear of violence, injury, abuse or harassment. This partnership is vital to helping our staff feel safer and more supported.”
How Operation Cavell Works
- Rollout across Lambeth, Southwark, Bromley, Croydon, and Sutton for an initial four months
- All assaults reviewed by senior investigators with police experts specialising in NHS cases
- Regular multi-agency meetings between police, prosecutors, and NHS to track and improve case outcomes
- Gather staff feedback to refine and improve the operation
Simon Jackson, Local Security Management Specialist, highlighted the urgent need: “Only seven per cent of those who assault health workers are currently prosecuted. Operation Cavell aims to change that.”
A Tough Message from the Authorities
Chief Inspector Luke Mooney of the Met said: “Assaults on NHS staff are totally unacceptable. These brave frontline workers face enough challenges without worrying about abuse or attack. This operation shows they have our full backing.”
Michael Mallon, CPS London South District Crown Prosecutor, added: “Attacks on emergency workers won’t be tolerated. We will respond strongly, working together to protect those saving lives every day.”
This follows the success of Operation Hampshire, which boosted conviction rates to 79% in South London for assaults on police officers.
NHS Workers Deserve Better Protection
Operation Cavell is the game-changer NHS staff have been waiting for. With dedicated police investigators and tough sentencing backing them, frontline health heroes are finally getting the serious protection they deserve.
