School support staff face daily violence and abuse in schools

In recent months, a report from Unison revealed alarming statistics about the experiences of school support staff across the UK. Approximately 64% of these staff members, including teaching assistants and cleaners, have reported witnessing violence in their workplaces over the past year. This troubling trend highlights a broader issue within schools, where incidents of both verbal abuse and physical altercations are becoming increasingly common. The survey indicated that more than one in three support staff members witness verbal abuse on a daily basis. Additionally, a considerable number have observed pupils engaging in fighting, pushing, and throwing objects as part of everyday school life. The report also provides context regarding the increase in school discipline issues. The number of school suspensions has nearly doubled since the pandemic, surging from 174,000 in autumn 2019 to around 346,000 last year. There has been a notable rise in the number of children permanently excluded from schools as well, from 3,167 to 4,168 during the same period. Such statistics underscore the challenges faced by educational institutions in maintaining a safe environment for both staff and students. The rise in incidents of violence coincides with widespread concern among school support staff about their job security and financial stability, with over 70% expressing worries about affording energy bills and food costs. Moreover, many support staff members feel undervalued, with nearly 59% stating that they do not feel recognized for their hard work. A significant number, approximately 67%, report putting in extra unpaid hours each week, indicating a commitment to their roles despite feeling unappreciated. As a result of these ongoing struggles, more than 46% are actively seeking employment elsewhere, illustrating a potential staffing crisis within the education sector. Mr. Short, a representative from Unison, emphasized that proper funding and additional staff are critical to addressing the rising incidence of bad behavior in schools. This perspective is reinforced by the call for the government to provide greater support and resources to improve conditions for both school staff and students. The Department for Education has acknowledged the vital role that school support staff play in children's education and the overall functioning of schools. Recognition of their contributions is essential if schools are to provide a safe and nurturing environment conducive to learning. Addressing the issues raised by support staff members and improving their pay and working conditions is crucial to alleviating the pressures they face and ensuring that they can continue to support vulnerable pupils effectively.