A new initiative to crack down on abusive behaviour towards NHS staff launches at The QEH on Monday 2 October.
The cameras, which will be worn by security staff across the hospital, aim to protect staff and patients by reducing the number of antisocial incidents. Since January 2023 there have been 163 reported incidents. The Trust operates a zero-tolerance abuse policy and these devices support this.
The devices are not actively recording by default – and instead will only be activated when the person wearing them decides they are in a situation where they would help. The wearer will always announce to everyone in the vicinity that their camera is being turned on before they begin recording.
Staff who will wear the body cameras have been specially trained and will only record when they believe an individual is being, or about to be, violent or abusive.
Paul Brooks, Director of Estates and Facilities, at QEH said: “We have implemented the use of body cameras following feedback from our staff. We hope these body cameras will make everyone at the Trust feel safer – whether that’s our staff, patients, or visitors. Importantly they will not be recording all colleagues, patients and conversations unless you are told in advance.”
Paul Blaber, Portering and Security Supervisor, said: “Starting to use body cameras protects me, as well as other members of staff, and of course patients and visitors when we are trying to help someone that may be acting aggressively. I know from experience that body cameras can de-escalate how an event can unfold and diffuses situations faster than if we weren’t using them.”
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For further information, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216.
To download the press release and photos, click here.
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