Violent NHS patients face pub ban

Drunk patients who attack staff at a Lancashire hospital could be banned from pubs in the surrounding area.

The A&E department at Chorley and South Ribble Hospital has been included in the local pubwatch initiative, which bans abusive drinkers from its pubs.

Health bosses hope the threat will act as a deterrent against abuse of NHS staff, which is becoming more common.

Chorley's emergency department matron Tina Lawrenson said staff were delighted about the scheme.

She added: "This is a great idea. Abusive and violent behaviour against NHS staff has become more commonplace.

"The Trust already has a series of measures in place to deal with the problem but being banned from pubs and clubs should act as a further deterrent as it has a profound effect on their lifestyle."

'Think twice'

Councillor Iris Smith, chair of Chorley Council's licensing committee, said the pubwatch scheme, which covers 22 pubs and bars, had been a great success.

She said: "We don't tolerate people who are abusive or violent in the borough's pubs and I'm sure this will make people think twice before being abusive or violent towards hospital staff.

"Anyone who acts in this manner in the Emergency Department will be banned from pubs in Chorley and the surrounding villages."

The hospital is part of Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

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