Rise in abuse, harassment cases reported by public healthcare workers reflects greater awareness

The number of abuse and harassment cases reported by public healthcare workers has nearly doubled - from 2,200 in 2023 to 4,200 in 2025. Police reports also rose by about 57 per cent over the same period. These were among the findings of a four-year report by the Tripartite Workgroup for the Prevention of Abuse and Harassment of Healthcare Workers. K Thanaletchimi, president of the National Trades Union Congress and the Healthcare Services Employees' Union, explains how abuses against healthcare workers occur. She also talks about how empowering healthcare workers to report abuse and harassment is twofold - the need for supportive employers to create a safe environment, as well as having a system in place with clear guidelines.