SECURITY guards at Southampton General Hospital are being balloted for strike action over pay and conditions, particularly in relation to frequent assaults in A&E.

The 21 workers, who work for agency employer Mitie, are seeking to up their basic £8.64 an hour to £10.50.

But staff are also angry that Mitie refuses to give them the personal protection equipment such as stab vests and personal restraints to help them deal with violent situations.

The workers argue that the company is aware that they face regular attacks from patients with drug, alcohol or mental health issues.

Their union, Unite, is also calling for proper sick pay to be organised for injured staff.

Currently, if guards are injured at work, they are given two weeks’ full pay and then two weeks’ half-pay while recuperating. The union says that this is encouraging injured workers to return to work early due to financial pressure.

Unite South East lead health officer Scott Kemp said: “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.”

A Mitie spokesperson said: “We take the safety of our staff very seriously and are piloting the wearing of safety gear on site.

“We are meeting with Unite and [mediation service] Acas later this month to discuss their proposals.”

Southampton General Hospital has been contacted for comment.