Over four physical attacks on education staff in West Dunbartonshire occur every day during the school term, as per startling new data. According to information obtained through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request by the Lennox, there were 862 physical assaults on education staff reported between October 3, 2023, and October 3, 2024. This translates to an average of 22 assaults per week or more than four per day within the school term span of 39 weeks.
Jim Halfpenny, representing West Dunbartonshire EIS, highlighted that the issue extends beyond physical assaults, with a total of 744 reports of both physical and verbal assaults to the union during just April to June this year. Halfpenny attributed these rising incidents to a concerning environment where students are feeling alienated, distressed, and resorting to aggressive behaviour. He mentioned various factors contributing to this, including the lack of investment in education, societal challenges like poverty, the impact of social media, mental health issues, and the aftermath of the pandemic.
The data revealed a total of 884 physical assaults on council staff across all departments in the past year, with over 97% of these incidents involving education workers. The survey conducted by EIS last year showed that a significant 66% of members faced daily attacks, indicating a notable increase in such incidents over recent years. The survey also indicated that 70% of teachers have experienced physical violence ranging from slapping to objects being thrown at them.
Moreover, the survey found that 90% of teachers believe that unaddressed needs of additional support needs (ASN) pupils exacerbate violent and disruptive behaviour. While West Dunbartonshire Council assured its commitment to supporting all children, especially those with ASN, and ensuring a safe work environment for staff, Jim pointed out that many working with ASN pupils feel unsafe due to the prevalent violence.
Jim stressed the prevalent societal issues like poverty influencing children’s behaviours both in and out of school. He pointed out that poverty impacts children’s response to challenges and mentioned the concerning high percentage of children living in poverty in West Dunbartonshire. He alluded to the cycle of violence extending into households, affecting children’s attitudes towards women and even educators.
In response to these rising challenges, the council reiterated its dedication to reducing physical and verbal abuse and providing necessary support for employees to report incidents. The council emphasised the right of employees to work without fear of violence and pledged to collaborate with staff to ensure a secure working environment. Nonetheless, Jim highlighted the need for a cultural shift to address the normalization of violence and aggression within schools.
The escalating incidents of violence and aggression within schools underscore broader societal issues that are impacting the wellbeing of both students and education staff. The data sheds light on the urgent need for comprehensive support systems and proactive measures to address the root causes of such behaviour and create safer learning environments for all stakeholders involved.