Devon and Cornwall Police to introduce spit and bite guards

Devon and Cornwall Police says it will introduce spit and bite guards (SBG) to limit the number of assaults on officers, staff and other emergency service workers.

According to the force, 216 officers and staff were spat on in Devon and Cornwall between 2016-2017.

It says assaults can have distressing implications for officers and staff and it is, "important that they have the right equipment to keep them safe".

The Force says it has considered a number of alternatives and that the preferred option has been, "robustly medically tested to ensure the safety of those in our care".

A total of 24 police forces nationally have already deployed SBGs, including Dorset Police who brought in the equipment last month.

The Assaults on Emergency Workers Bill was recently amended to double the maximum penalty available for assaults on emergency workers, including spitting.

Emergency services across the South West came together last year to launch the #unacceptable campaign; in partnership with Exeter City Football Club and Exeter Chiefs Rugby club.

This campaigned was aimed at raising awareness of and reducing the number of incidents of assaults on emergency workers.

South Western Ambulance Service has supported Devon and Cornwall Police's decision to bring in SBGs.