WEST Midlands Ambulance Service has announced that it is to mount a full scale trial on the use of stab-proof vest.

The decision has been taken after a report was submitted to the Trust Board following a risk assessment and review of health and safety issues.

A full trial involving a number of staff from each locality will see vests from two or three companies issued to both male and female staff to wear throughout their shifts.

A working group made up of staff, unions and managers will be set up to ensure the trial is thorough and provides adequate information for Board members to make an informed decision in approximately six months time.

New research has shown that in 11-months up to the end of February, 121 WMAS staff reported being assaulted. Of those, four were attacked with some sort of weapon; these ranged from a TV remote control, a kettle, a rucksack and a false leg.

The research also shows that statistically Saturday between 6pm and midnight is the most likely time that staff will become a victim of violence.

Chief Executive Anthony Marsh said: “This is a very sad day for our Trust. It is a damning indictment of modern society that our staff now feel strongly enough to ask for this level of protection.

“This trial will ensure that we examine all of the issues around the possible introduction of stab vests across the Region so that we can ensure that we make the right decision for staff.

“The latest figures about the number of assaults on staff are equally shocking. People join the ambulance service to help people in their hour of need. The thought that they can’t do that job because of fear of violence; it really is unbelievable.

“The Trust has made a commitment that it will do everything possible to pursue each and every perpetrator and bring the full weight of the law to bear on them.

“We will not rush into any decision but ultimately we have to ensure that our staff are protected.”