Scheme to tackle A&E violence extended to Edinburgh

credit - BBC

A project that seeks to “interrupt that cycle of violence” based at a Glasgow accident and emergency department is to be extended to Edinburgh.

The Navigators Scheme, funded by Police Scotland's Violence Reduction Unit, has been operating at Glasgow Royal Infirmary (GRI) since December.

Staff work with people who are victims of violence or who need help by bridging the gap between them and support agencies, as part of the project.

They discuss the agencies and services that can help them, which can include relationship counselling or putting them in touch with organisations such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Shelter.

However, the Scottish Government is now providing £70,000 funding to extend the initiative to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson visited the emergency department of GRI to meet staff and announce the new funding.

He said: “This successful programme will be extended to another major Scottish hospital, meaning this unique and tailored approach will be offered to even more people.

“The Navigators I met today do a remarkable job dealing sensitively with people who are injured and distressed, often defusing situations which could lead to further harm. There are many people who struggle to break the cycle of violence that destroys lives without the right support. This is where the Navigators can make a real difference, by speaking to people when they are at their most vulnerable and offering support.”

Director of the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit, Karyn McCluskey, said the Navigators Scheme allowed staff to make critical interventions in cases of violence and abuse.  

She said: "The Navigators provide a critical role in enabling us to interact with people who may be extremely vulnerable and far from traditional services.

“Some may experience a range of emotions including anger, confusion, and perhaps a need for revenge.

“Our Navigators interrupt that cycle of violence, prevent further assaults and navigate people to services that enable them to better outcomes.“

Jim Crombie, Acting Chief Executive, NHS Lothian, welcomed the extension, of the project to Edinburgh.

He said: “We are thrilled that the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh is being picked as the second site in Scotland to trial the Navigator scheme.

“We are confident that the scheme will bring real benefit to the lives of patients and to patient care, and improve the environment for staff, visitors and patients. It will also help boost staff morale to see another level of support being provided, especially to those patients who would not have otherwise had access to this level of help.”