Other

Resources: Talking point - Why are emergency staff obstructed?

1 min read
It is now a criminal offence to obstruct or hinder a firefighter or ambulance worker carrying out their job under the new Emergency Workers (Obstruction) Act - Kick-start a discussion on respect for blues and twos
The MP who introduced the law for England and Wales said people who risk their lives to save others should be free to work "without obstruction and attack by yobs and idiots". Talk about what he means.

There have been reports of young people making hoax calls and then trying to stop emergency workers getting through. Why would they do that?

The Fire and Rescue Service reports about 200 incidents a year of impeding and assault.

Some politicians think such antisocial behaviour is another sign of lack of respect in society. Do young people agree?

The maximum penalty for an offence under this Act is a fine of 5,000. Do young people think this penalty is right?

Some fire services have young firefighter schemes. Would understanding the job of firefighters help young people appreciate the seriousness of their actions?

The first person sentenced under a similar law in Scotland was a 24-year-old homeless drug addict who was found guilty of shouting, swearing and obstructing nursing staff. She was jailed for six months. Do young people think this is a good way to instil respect?


More like this

Hertfordshire Youth Workers

“Opportunities in districts teams and countywide”

Administration Apprentice

SE1 7JY, London (Greater)