More than half of care workers report workplace attacks, GMB survey finds

More than half of care workers have experienced physical or verbal abuse at work within the past three years, according to research from GMB Union.

A survey of more than 1,600 care workers conducted by the union in May and June found that 52% had been subjected to attacks while carrying out their roles.

Respondents reported a wide range of incidents, including being punched, kicked, headbutted, strangled and suffering broken bones.

Workers also said they had been struck with walking sticks, Zimmer frames, shoes and brooms, while others reported being cut with razors or having hot water thrown at them.

The survey found racial abuse was a recurring issue, with many workers reporting that abuse came not only from residents but also from family members.

One care worker told the survey they had been “battered, stabbed with bread knife hot tea thrown over me hit with plate and cups.”

Another reported being bitten so severely that it caused bleeding.

The findings were presented at GMB’s annual conference in Blackpool, where delegates discussed workplace safety and conditions in the care sector.