'Disturbing findings' reveal extent of workplace violence

12% of workers have been subjected to violence at work, according to a new study by the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

The survey was conducted by YouGov. 1,642 adults were surveyed. It revealed that one in eight workers have experienced violence such as shoving, punching, being spat on, or stabbing at work.

Of those who have been subjected to violence, 20% reported that it had happened more than ten times during their careers.

The TUC’s figures also revealed which sectors workplace violence was the most likely to occur in. Medical and health workers were the most likely to experience violence at work. 22% in the sector had been subjected to violence in the workplace. Education was ranked as the second most likely sector to have staff experience violence at work. 12% reported that they had experienced violence at work. The hospitality and leisure sector (12%), the retail sector (nine per cent) and the manufacturing sector (six per cent) were ranked as the third, fourth and fifth respectively.