Nurse compensated for double attack

Aug 30 2007

A staff nurse at Broadmoor Hospital has been awarded £21,500 after being attacked twice by the same patient.

UNISON won the compensation for Lucia Johnson, from Hampshire, through its free legal help scheme with Thompsons Solicitors.

Mrs Johnson's nose and hand were injured during the first assault, when the patient at the high-security psychiatric hospital threw objects from his room at her.

The second time, he punched her in the face as she and three colleagues intervened to prevent him from killing himself.

Mrs Johnson had several months off work as a result of her injuries.

UNISON regional officer Eddie Jaggers said she had been clearly put at risk by her employer.

"As a result she was assaulted twice by a patient known to be violent. Although searches had been regularly carried out in his room, the appropriate action was not taken. We are therefore very pleased with the compensation secured."

Anita Rattan of Thompsons Solicitors, who represented Mrs Johnson, said: "It is unacceptable that so many nurses who work alone should have to endure assault or harassment. Lucia Johnson's case highlights the very real dangers they face."