Ambulance crews wearing stab vests which will be issued to staff

The move was recommended amid health and safety concerns for Essex crews working on the outskirts of London alongside crews wearing the protection.

The vests, which will cost �350,000, protect from hand guns, knives and spikes such as hypodermic needles.

Chief executive Anthony Marsh said the move was to ensure staff safety.

"Unfortunately our crews are having to put up with an increase in violence and verbal abuse. Fortunately we have not had a member of staff stabbed but they have been kicked, headbutted, punched and spat at," he said.

I have worked in the ambulance service for many years and it is very sad that we need to go down this road Frank Ward, of the union Unison

"It is totally unacceptable that our staff should have to put up with any abuse. They are in the business of saving lives and helping people with medical problems

"I would much rather see the approximately �350,000 cost of providing the vests spent elsewhere but ultimately we need to ensure that staff feel, and are, as safe as possible."

Staff will also be trained in how to defuse and calm conflict.

Mr Marsh added: "We see this as being as important, if not more so, than the issuing of the vests. Diffusing situations will do more to ensure that staff remain safe than having to rely on physical protection."

Frank Ward, Unison branch secretary for Essex Ambulance Service, said: "Fortunately the instances of recorded attacks on ambulance crews are still fairly low, but even one attack is one too many, however serious it is.

"This will be a useful addition to our personal protective equipment. I have worked in the ambulance service for many years and it is very sad that we need to go down this road, we are here to help people."