Anyone working in the NHS, receiving NHS treatment or visiting NHS premises has the right to feel safe and secure from violence and abuse, both physical and verbal. This week, staff across the trust took a stand against violent and aggressive behaviour at the Royal Free London.

On Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 May, events were held across Barnet Hospital, Chase Farm Hospital, and the Royal Free Hospital inviting colleagues to engage in conversations about safety at work. Activities included open forums, surveys, ward visits, project updates, and discussions about reporting incidents.

The 'no excuse for abuse' message was launched by the trust's violence prevention and reduction committee, chaired by Bev Thomas, director of nursing at Barnet Hospital. Earlier this year, Caroline Clarke, Royal Free London group chief executive, joined with leaders across the NHS in a clear message: violence and aggression towards staff will not be tolerated. Read her open letter here.

The awareness raising campaign culminated in the monthly violence prevention and reduction committee network, which took place on Wednesday 25 May. In the session, staff reflected on the site events and shared their key learnings.

Here are some photos from the week: