Paramedics Under Attack: St John's New Campaign

0:00St. John ambulance launched a campaign this week called, we shouldn't have to say it, aimed at cutting down violence against paramedics after a 12. Percent jump in attacks this year. The push comes and made growing assaults on crews, highlighted by patient transport officer Beck Thompson's terrifying ordeal in Calgourley on December. Seven, when a man jumped on her ambulance and smashed the windscreen. Thompson, who was inside with her partner, thought of her three young kids as she feared for her life during the attack. She's still dealing with anxiety on the job, always watching her back, even after other incidents like inappropriate touching by a patient's family. Remember, despite studying to become a full paramedic, she says no one should feel unsafe while helping others. Fellow paramedic, Tick Raymond called in one of the worst cases he's seen, but stressed these attacks happened daily and shouldn't be normalized, even in emotional situations. Families and patients need to support crews who rush to triple zero calls, not lash out.

1:00Last year saw 442 reported incidents, up from before, with 35 injuries to staff in over 105 already. This year, more than one in three, triggered a police response, including 46 in December alone. St. John leaders say they'll prioritize crew safety, even delaying patient care if needed, and are updating training while trialling gear like body, armor. The service hopes community backing will end injuries altogether, backing premiere Roger Cook's support for safer streets for those who save lives. This has been Sydney News Today, powered by AI.