Ambulance Worker Faces PTSD After Being Headbutted On-Duty

DENBIGH, Wales – A paramedic in Denbigh, Joanne Jones, suffered a violent assault while on duty, resulting in post-traumatic stress disorder. In 2023, Jones was headbutted twice by a patient, leaving her with a bloodied nose. The incident, along with other violent encounters, has rendered her unable to work and in need of counseling.

The attack occurred when Jones, training to become a Paramedic, was helping a patient at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd. The patient became aggressive as Jones tried to untangle him from tubes and wires, eventually headbutting her twice. The assault left her with swelling on her face, requiring medical attention, and an x-ray revealed a potential fracture in her jaw.

Despite receiving support from her partner and the Trust’s wellbeing team, Jones continues to suffer physical and emotional repercussions from the attack. She was ultimately diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and has undergone counseling to address the trauma she experienced.

The Welsh Ambulance Service condemned the act of violence against its staff and volunteers, emphasizing the detrimental impact of such incidents. Addressing the increase in assaults on emergency workers, the service called for harsher sentencing for those responsible for such acts.

The perpetrator, Bradley Roberts, was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH) and sentenced to 52 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 24 months. He was also ordered to pay compensation to Jones. The incident sheds light on the alarming trend of assaults on emergency workers in Wales, which saw a nine percent increase in the past year.

Efforts to reduce such incidents are underway, with campaigns like “With Us, Not Against Us” aimed at raising awareness and preventing violence against emergency workers. The Joint Emergency Service Group in Wales launched the campaign to address the issue and protect those who serve on the front lines of emergency response.

As emergency workers like Jones continue to face the risks associated with their roles, the importance of ensuring their safety and well-being remains a top priority. The impact of violence and aggression on these individuals underscores the need for ongoing support and measures to prevent such incidents in the future.