A MEAT cleaver, a rusty saw blade, and a five-inch knife are just some of the items used to attack staff at Southampton General Hospital’s A&E, the Daily Echo can reveal.

Over a three-year period a retractable knife, razor blades, and several pairs of scissors were confiscated from the public by security staff after incidents at the busy hospital in Tremona Road.

These resulted in injuries including broken noses, dislocated knees, needle stick injuries, and black eyes, all of which have also caused significant emotional stress to staff.

Staff were also spat at and strangled, union Unite revealed to the Echo.

One hospital security guard, who wished to remain anonymous, said that the violence has “grown significantly over the past three years”.

He added: “Lots of us are now getting injured, the police can’t support us as they don’t have the resources to do so.

“We lack the proper training and equipment.

“It can range from restraining a child up to an older adult.

“We’ve had so many people getting badly hurt.

“One of the worst cases was a few years ago where three guys were injured.

“The injuries sustained were a knee injury, a broken rib and a broken finger – all inflicted by one individual.”

It comes as Unite, Britain and Ireland’s largest union, said its 21 security staff members at the General were being attacked on a “regular basis” by those under the influence of drink or drugs, or with mental health problems.

And they claim staff lack the proper corrective equipment, such as stab vest and restrains, to deal with such attacks.

Now Unite say its members, who are employed by Mitie Security Ltd, are holding a ballot over possible strike action.

Unite lead officer for health in the south east, Scott Kemp, said: “What we want is enhanced sickness payments for those off work due to being injured protecting patients and hospital staff; proper and transparent investigations into all attacks; and our members having the necessary personal protection equipment.

“Our members are seeking six months’ full-pay, followed by six months’ half-pay for all sickness absences. We don’t think those are unreasonable requests, given the level of violence in today’s society generally.

“Our members are at the forefront of providing security and a safe environment for staff, patients and visitors – that’s why Mitie’s management needs to get around the table and negotiate constructively.”