AMBULANCE staff in Wales have been assaulted or abused by aggressive patients who have been asked to wear protective surgical masks.

The Welsh Ambulance Service is making the request to some of its patients to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.

“Our staff have reported a growing number of instances in which patients have been aggressive and have even been the subject of an assault after asking a patient to put on a mask,” said Claire Roche from the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust.

“Assaulting our staff is never acceptable, no matter the circumstances.”

In a video message, Claire added: “We are here to help, never to harm.

“We ask all of you, the people of Wales, to please continue to trust our staff and to comply with the instructions we may give you.”

Ambulance crews are now attending every call across Wales in protective equipment, which includes masks, visors, aprons and coveralls, in addition to their standard gloves.

Claire, who is the trust’s executive director of quality and nursing, said: “At this time, our crews will attend all incidents with personal protective equipment.

“What you may not be aware of is that they may also ask you, the patient, to put on a surgical mask.

“The reason they do this is to not only protect you but also for the protection of the people around you.

“If we do ask you to put on a mask, please do not be alarmed and follow the instructions of our staff.

“We understand how distressing this situation may be and we also understand that putting on a mask while having shortness of breath may seem counter-intuitive but it is the right thing to do.”