Paramedics are testing the vests to see how comfortable they are

Paramedics have started to wear stab-proof vests to protect them from attacks.

West Midlands Ambulance is taking part in a three-month trial aimed at protecting its staff from violent patients.

The Association for Professional Ambulance Personnel (APAP) says violent attacks against staff have increased by 13% over the last two years.

APAP will be asking the Department of Health on Thursday to provide protective vests for all paramedics.

Need protection

Coventry paramedic Ian Inglesant, who had his jaw broken by a violent patient, says paramedics need protection.

Mr Inglesant says he believes more ambulance personnel in the region will opt to wear flak jackets and stab proof vests at work, if they are given the choice.

West Midlands Ambulance Service press officer Chris Capewell said 18 paramedics were testing the vests.

"We want to find out just how comfortable these vests are and if paramedics want to wear them," she said.