POLICE and hospital managers in this area are working closely together to reduce violence and abuse against NHS staff.

Figures released today by the NHS Security Management Service reveal there were 38 physical assaults reported for 2004/05.

That's seven for every 1,000 staff working for the Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Trust.

Although this figure compares favourably with neighbouring hospital trusts, there is no room for complacency.

Risk manager Mel Johnson said the trust's policy towards violence and aggression against its staff was simple - zero tolerance.

She said: "We work very closely with the police, who regularly meet us to make sure we are doing the best we can to protect our staff while also sending a clear message to patients that any form of aggression is totally unacceptable.

"Staff are encouraged to report incidents, whether they are verbal or physical.

"It is probably fair to say that the figures revealed today do not give us the full picture, which is why reporting incidents is so essential."

Inspector Nick Harvey, of Kirklees Police Safety Unit, said: "West Yorkshire Police are working in partnership with the trust to reduce incidents of violence and aggression towards NHS staff.

"The police will try to respond to and investigate any such incidents.

"The courts consider it an aggravating factor if the victim of any violence is a member of the health services carrying out their duties in serving the public."

Inspector Vince Firth, of the Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "The police are determined, with partner agencies, to develop a safer community, reducing crime and the fear of crime.

"The ongoing work with the hospital trust sends out the message that violent and aggressive behaviour towards NHS staff will not be tolerated and will be dealt with effectively."

Over recent years the trust has spent almost £200,000 on upgrading and improving security cameras to help protect staff, visitors and their property.

The cameras are inside and outside hospital buildings and in car parks. They are also in place, or planned, at sites away from hospitals.