Occupational violence and aggression (OVA) remains a significant challenge across our organisation. Incidents of aggression can have lasting impacts on healthcare workers including stress, fatigue, reduced job satisfaction, and burnout. These effects can extend beyond the individual, influencing team morale, staff retention, and patient experiences. Preventing and effectively managing OVA is critical to creating a safer work environment.

Evidence shows that early recognition of escalation, strong communication skills, and consistent use of de-escalation strategies reduce the likelihood and severity of incidents. When staff feel confident and supported to respond to challenging behaviours, they are able to maintain therapeutic relationships, deliver compassionate, person-centred care, and can ensure their own safety and the safety of those around them.

To further strengthen Northern Health’s leadership in OVA prevention, we have launched a new online Prevention and Management of Occupational Violence and Aggression (PAMOVA) Training eLearning course on myLearning. This package replaces the current Occupational Violence & Aggression mandatory eLearning, and all staff (excluding Mental Health) will automatically be enrolled. Staff are encouraged to access and complete the new eLearning course, even if they are not yet due.

“Completing the PAMOVA eLearning helps staff build confidence in recognising early signs of escalation and responding safely in challenging situations. These skills support calmer, more respectful interactions, reducing distress for patients and families and lowering the need for restrictive interventions. Taking a proactive, organisation-wide approach to OVA also strengthens our workplace culture, reinforcing shared responsibility for working Safe, Kind, and Together,” says Lauren Cummins, Prevention and Management of Occupational Violence and Aggression (PAMOVA) Coordinator acute/subacute.

Support is available for any staff member who has been impacted by occupational violence or aggression. Assistance is available through:

• Employee Mental Health and Wellbeing Program (EAP)
• Your manager or supervisor
• Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) team
• Peer support services

Your wellbeing is important, and support is always available.

Pictured in featured image: Diana Claney, PAMOVA Coordinator for Mental Health (siting) and Lauren Cummins, PAMOVA Coordinator acute/subacute (standing).