Alarming attacks on London ambulance crews have led the service to step up its campaign against people who assault its staff.
Every day there is at least one attack on a London Ambulance Service (LAS) member.
LAS has welcomed the recent prosecution of man who was received a four-month prison sentence for assaulting a Wimbledon and Putney ambulance crew.
Colin Reilly approached the two LAS technicians while they were attending a call in the West Hill area of Wandsworth in March.
He had been drinking and verbally abused both of them. He then attempted to strangle the female crew-member while she was treating a collapsed man. Her male crew-mate managed to restrain the man until the police arrived.
The woman, who has been with the LAS for more than nine years, said: "I am just glad it is over and there is a result. Ambulance crews are the frontline of the NHS and are only there to help people in emergency situations.
"I am now a lot more cautious doing my job it makes you want to look over your shoulder the whole time and that can't be good."
The LAS said the sentence illustrates that offences against ambulance crews are starting to be taken more seriously.
A spokesman said: "It is important that the public support their ambulance service. If they see a crew in trouble, we need them to think how can they help, whether it be by calling the police or being prepared to act as a witness.
"We strongly believe that only tougher sentencing will act as a deterrent."
The LAS launched its NO EXCUSE' violence awareness campaign last December, a time when traditionally more alcohol and drug-related violence is expected because of Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Just before the launch LAS paramedic Simon Spencer was stabbed while attending an emergency call. The assailant was jailed for eight years.
The LAS is working more closely with the Metropolitan Police and Crown Prosecution Service to reduce risks to staff and ensure appropriate action is taken against people who assault ambulance crews.
November 12, 2001 12:00
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