Alarming levels of violence in Borders schools, UNISON survey reveals
Last updated 3rd Apr 2024
A survey of education support staff in the Borders has revealed more than nine out of ten of those who responded (95 per cent) have reported experiencing or witnessing physical violence in local schools.
The findings included incidents of kicking and punching, as well as verbal abuse.
UNISON - the largest union representing school staff - is urging Scottish Borders Council to take action.
Borders branch secretary Kaymarie Hughes said: “These findings are shocking.
"School staff should not have to face violence and aggression in their workplace. Scottish Borders Council must address this issue to the ensure safety and wellbeing of their staff.
“UNISON has proposed a series of recommendations aimed at addressing workplace violence effectively, which could be actioned now.
"These include enhanced training and guidance for staff, improved ways staff can feedback, better risk assessments, and ways to support staff who need to report incidence.
"We are also asking Scottish Borders Council to sign up to UNISON’s Violence at Work Charter, which commits employers to creating a safe and supportive work environment, free from violence and aggression.”
The union surveyed views from Additional Needs Assistants (ANAs), Early Years Practitioners (EYPs), and (any others) other essential education support roles.
We've asked Scottish Borders Council for a response.
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