Emergency service call handlers from the London Ambulance Service (LAS) have reported alarming levels of abuse, with 54% of 999 operators and 48% of 111 responders experiencing harassment in the past year. Call handlers are subjected to threats, racism, and even death threats while trying to assist callers. In response, LAS has launched a campaign, ‘All we want for Christmas is… RESPECT,’ emphasizing the need for public respect towards emergency responders. The LAS stresses that every minute spent dealing with abuse detracts from their ability to provide critical help to those in need.
