It reminds people that assaults of this nature are unacceptable, and are a crime under the Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Act 2018.

Ambulance crews and control room staff reported 290 incidents during the first 10 weeks of lockdown from 23 March to 31 May. This figure compared with 199 during the same time period in 2019.

In recent months, South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) has condemned a “disgusting” assault against one of its paramedics in an ambulance. The incident occurred on 15 May in Croydon Street, Bristol when an unknown male on a bicycle spat through the vehicle window onto the victim’s face, before riding away.

SWASFT’s deputy county commander for BNSSG (Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire), Dave Manners, said, “We condemn this deplorable assault on our paramedic while they were on duty driving an ambulance.

“Nobody should have to face this kind of disgusting behaviour, especially not a healthcare professional working tirelessly during a global health pandemic.

“Our people are there to help you, your family members and friends, often at the most difficult of times. Please join us in supporting the police appeal to find the person responsible for this attack on one of our family, and bring them to justice.”

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson added, “We’d ask anyone who can help us with our investigation into this incident to get in touch with us on 101 or via our website, quoting reference 5220105782.”

Jenny Winslade, SWASFT executive director of Quality and Clinical Care, said, “We urge the public to respect our people.

“They demonstrate dedication and courage every day, putting their own health at risk for the sake of others. But sadly they face violence and aggression every day while they are trying to protect and save our patients’ lives, which is completely unacceptable.

“Any incident of violence and aggression can have serious consequences on them, their families and colleagues.

“We support whatever action is necessary to protect our staff from harm, and ensure those responsible for any attacks are prosecuted.”

SWASFT is encouraging people to share social media posts in support of the #Unacceptable campaign to spread the message as far as possible.