NHS workers across Teesside are facing a growing tide of violence and aggression.
More than 1,400 incidents have been recorded in just one year - and now staff have to wear body cameras for protection.
University Hospitals Tees has revealed it is cracking down on its zero-tolerance approach to violence against NHS staff.
The trust, which runs the James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough and the University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton, recorded more than 1,400 incidents of violence and aggression during 2025.
Now, it is introducing measures including body-worn cameras, pursuing legal action against offenders and, in some cases, refusing treatment to abusive patients.
One unnamed emergency department worker at James Cook described abuse as a regular part of the job.
They said: "Which violent incident would you like to know about? Violence in the emergency department is constant.
“I remember this one incident where a patient was brought in by the police to the emergency department.
"I offered him water and, without warning, he tackled me to the ground."
The worker said the introduction of body-worn cameras appears to be making a difference, with some aggressive patients changing their behaviour once they realise they are being recorded.
The unnamed staff member who now wears a camera
(Image: University Hospitals Tees)
At the University Hospital of North Tees, nursing sister Leanne Powell also recalled a frightening incident, that unfolded while she was treating a patient with injuries to their arms.
Leanne said the patient handed her a large Stanley knife and admitted it had been used to cause the wounds.
After she moved the knife away and continued the assessment, the patient suddenly attempted to retrieve it.
She said: "The patient suddenly jumped from her chair and attempted to grab it.
"I secured the knife first, but she pushed me back into the chair. As I tried to leave, the individual grabbed my hand, attempted to take the knife, and pushed me against the wall while holding my wrist.
"I was able to use the Tannoy system to ask for help and within 30 seconds, staff and security came to my rescue."
The patient was later prosecuted.
Laura Pennicott, emergency department manager at North Tees, said that this violence will not be tolerated.
She said: "Staff members are empowered to withdraw or delay treatment when patients or visitors behave aggressively, except where immediate clinical needs or capacity issues require further management."
"Violence and aggression not only affect staff but can also disrupt patient care and create an unsafe environment for everyone in our hospitals."
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Stacey Hunter, chief executive of University Hospitals Tees, praised staff for continuing to provide care despite the abuse they face.
She added: "All NHS workers have the right to feel safe at work to allow them to provide the best possible care to our patients.
"This means refusing treatment where appropriate, pursuing legal action against offenders, and working even more closely with partners, including the police and local councils."