ZERO TOLERANCE TO INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR POLICY
Unfortunately some patients treat our staff inappropriately, including using harassment, foul language and intimidation towards them. Any abuse, physical, verbal or written, towards any member of our staff will not be tolerated. Patients who act in breach of the Surgery’s policy will be removed from the register and will have to find an alternative GP Practice elsewhere. The purpose of this policy is to address instances of unacceptable behaviour which may cause harm or the fear of harm to any person within the Practice. The scope of this Policy therefore includes instances of violence, abuse or aggression committed by any person, whether patient, visitor or any other person working within the Practice against any patient, visitor, or other person working within the Practice.
Inappropriate behaviours are defined as:
- Violence is the use of force against a person and has the same definition as ‘assault’ in law (i.e. an attempt, offer or application of force against the person). This would cover any person unlawfully touching any other person forcefully, spitting at another person, raising fists or feet or verbally threatening to strike or otherwise apply force to any person.
- Abuse is behaviour that is intended to gain power and control over another person, using abusive language, making rude, harsh and offensive remarks with the intent to hurt or undermine.
- Aggression is regarded as threatening or abusive language or gestures, sexual gestures or behaviour, derogatory sexual, racial, misogynistic, homophobic remarks, LGBTQ+ phobia, or homophobia, biphobia and transphobia. Shouting at any person, use of foul language or applying force to any Practice property or the personal property of any person on the Practice. This would cover people banging on desks or counters or shouting loudly in an intimidating manner.
This Policy applies throughout the premises, including its car park and grounds. It also applies to any employee or Partner away from the Practice but only in so far as it relates to the business of the Practice.
This Practice operates a Zero Tolerance Policy
Any abuse, physical or verbal, including shouting, swearing or harassment of any kind towards a member of our staff will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Patients who act in breach of the Surgery’s Policy will be removed from our register and will have to find an alternative GP Practice elsewhere.