VIOLENT patients are to be refused hospital treatment if they continue to abuse and assault staff.Under a zero tolerance regime now operating at Ipswich Hospital, patients who assault those caring for them are being taken to court.

By Jessica Nicholls

VIOLENT patients are to be refused hospital treatment if they continue to abuse and assault staff.

Under a zero tolerance regime now operating at Ipswich Hospital, patients who assault those caring for them are being taken to court.

Although there has not been a rise in attacks on hospital staff, the number of court cases against attackers is increasing.

The new security scheme is being launched at the hospital this month in a bid to get staff to report any assaults on them and to let patients know any form of violence or disturbance will not be tolerated in the hospital.

See tonight's Evening Star for full story…