Shock findings of violence in Borders schools – The Southern Reporter

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Ninety-five per cent of education support staff in Scottish Borders schools have experienced or witnessed violence, according to a shocking new report.

Now, Scottish Borders Council is being urged to take immediate action over violence in local authority schools after new figures were published in the report by Unison Scotland.

The report is based on a survey of education support staff and it paints a troubling picture of violence in educational settings across the Borders.

The union surveyed views from Additional Needs Assistants (ANAs), Early Years Practitioners (EYPs), and other essential education support roles.

Over 9 in 10 respondents (95%) reported experiencing or witnessing physical violence, ranging from verbal abuse, and even kicking and punching.

The union says the council must take immediate proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of staff and students.

Kaymarie Hughes, Unison Borders branch secretary, said: “These findings are shocking. School staff should not have to face violence and aggression in their workplace. Scottish Borders Council must address this issue to the ensure safety and well-being of their staff.

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