health and safety incidents
Councils are currently discussing reported increases in health and safety incidents, including verbal abuse and near misses.
Harrow Council recorded an 8% increase in health and safety incidents in the 2025-26 financial year, with 524 incidents reported. A report to the council noted that this rise may indicate improved reporting practices and greater staff awareness. Separately, Lewisham's Hub Libraries saw a 10% rise in reported incidents between October 2023 and September 2025.
Data presented to the Lewisham Health and Safety Committee showed that verbal and threatening behaviour accounted for 57.4% of all library incidents, alongside a 156% increase in near misses. Richard Brooks, Strategic Director for Corporate Resources and Innovation at Harrow Council, stated it is difficult to interpret if the rise represents an underlying increase.
Key facts
- Harrow Council recorded an 8% increase in health and safety incidents in the 2025-26 financial year. Source
- Harrow Council reported 524 health and safety incidents in the 2025-26 financial year. Source
- Lewisham's Hub Libraries saw a 10% rise in incidents between October 2023 and September 2025. Source
- Verbal and threatening behaviour constituted 57.4% of all library incidents in Lewisham. Source
- Near misses in Lewisham libraries rose by 156% between October 2023 and September 2025. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.