Holly Palmer attacked a Greater Manchester paramedic following a welfare call on Friday 30 August 2024. On Tuesday 12 November, she was sentenced at Manchester Magistrates’ Court to 60 hours of community service, a 12-month probation period, and was ordered to pay £50 in compensation.

Responding alone in a rapid response vehicle, a North West Ambulance Service paramedic arrived at an address in Manchester following a request for backup from an ambulance crew. However, Palmer refused to allow them into her property for an assessment.

As the paramedic and crew were leaving, Palmer emerged from her home and began an argument with a neighbour. In an effort to de-escalate the situation, the paramedic intervened. Unfortunately, Palmer redirected her aggression towards the emergency worker, hurling abusive language and vulgar insults. She then physically assaulted the paramedic, who was pushed and almost fell to the ground.

Fearing for their safety, the paramedic called for police assistance and locked themselves in the rapid response vehicle. Palmer continued her verbal and physical attack, shouting death threats through the window and repeatedly hitting the vehicle.

The police arrived shortly after and arrested Palmer on charges of assault.

The Greater Manchester paramedic has been left shaken by the attack and has required welfare and managerial support from the service.

In response to assaults on emergency workers, we have been participating in NHS England and Improvement’s body worn video camera (BWVC) project since 2021, which now gives all frontline staff the opportunity to wear a camera whilst on duty. Unfortunately, on the night of the attack in August, the paramedic was not wearing a camera. They explained, “This is the first time I had ever experienced this form of violence and aggression so hadn’t before seen the need to wear a camera. However, following the attack, I now wear a camera every shift. It gives me peace of mind and a bit of added protection, especially when I am responding solo.”

Violence Prevention and Reduction Senior Manager Natalie Samuels, says, “Our colleagues work extremely hard and are dedicated to caring for their communities. They should be able to do this without being abused or attacked. The sentencing helps send a message to the small minority of people who think that it is acceptable to assault or abuse our staff that it will not be tolerated. We will continue to work with the police and other partners to bring offenders to justice.”

We extend our sincere thanks to Greater Manchester Police for their support throughout this investigation.