Understand
Security incidents at Shropshire hospitals rise by 37%
Overview
Security incidents at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust increased by more than 37% in a year to 2,669 in 2025-26, driven by growing demand and increased staff reporting. While aggressive behavior and calls for security rose, the trust noted that cases involving moderate or greater harm decreased and overall rates remained below the national average.
Key points
- The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust recorded 2,669 security incidents in 2025-26, up from 1,946 the previous year.
- Royal Shrewsbury Hospital accounted for 1,627 incidents, Princess Royal Hospital in Telford recorded 1,007, and 12 were reported at Hollinswood House.
- The trust attributes the rise to increased demand for security and greater staff awareness in reporting incidents.
- Intentional or inexcusable violence and aggression increased from 201 to 207 over the past two years, while many incidents involved unintentional behavior from patients with dementia or medication issues.
- The trust maintains a zero-tolerance policy, utilizing staff training, de-escalation techniques, warning letters, and court prosecutions against persistent offenders.