STAFF in schools have been advised not to carry out any voluntary duties in response to reports of abuse and violence and how they are dealt with.

GMB union has taken action after what it says has been an increase in incidents.

The union said non-teaching staff have not been given adequate support and fear there is a “culture of blame” that puts them at risk, where the worker is then disciplined for how they responded.

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John Slaven, GMB regional organiser, said there has been an increase in violence and abuse, while Glasgow City Council said all reported incidents are fully investigated.

(Image: Staff)

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He said there are not adequate sanctions for those carrying out the abuse and said staff are not given proper training to allow them to deal with potentially violent situations.

The move affects roles such as janitors, school catering staff and school crossing patrol officers.

He said: “We absolutely understand the need to protect pupils but staff also need protection.”

Mr Slaven added: “It is very sad that we feel workers are not being protected. We are talking about attacks.”

“We are asking members not to take part in voluntary duties like involvement in clubs or janitors asked to take playground supervision.

“Head teachers will ask non-teaching staff to take on extra duties because they are short-staffed, but then not supported when something goes wrong.”

The union said there has been growing concern following a number of incidents that have led to  the action being taken.

Mr Slaven said that any verbal response to abuse can lead to disciplinary action against the worker. The union said members believe there is an imbalance in the disciplinary approach following incidents.

A Glasgow City Council spokesperson, said: “The safety of all our staff is paramount, and we take all incidents of violence extremely seriously.

“We have robust processes in place that require any incident to be reported and logged on our health and safety system. These are all fully investigated.

“Staff are provided with the relevant training, and we continue to work with staff to ensure they are supported and feel valued within their work environment.”