8th October 2026
A 6-month pilot of Body Worn Cameras (BWCs) is being trialled to support a safer environment for staff, patients and visitors, commencing Monday 12th October 2026.
The use of the BWC is voluntary, proportionate, and governed by clear policies, training and data protection requirements. They do not record continuously and are never used covertly.
It is hoped that in introducing the use of BWCs, this will deter, de-escalate and document violence and aggression against staff and others.
Use of Body Worn Cameras in ED
The BWCs will only be used by trained and authorised staff, including nurses, security officers and senior decision-makers only. Participation is voluntary.
BWCs may be activated when a staff member feels abused, threatened or assaulted, or believes there is a risk of violence or aggression. This means that staff may use a BWC if they perceive there is a risk that violence and aggression will occur as well as when it is actually experienced/happening.
The BWCs may be switched on when there is threatening behaviour, verbal abuse, physical violence, inappropriate use of social media and/or telecommunication and threats with weapons.
They will not be used during personal or intimate care, or in situations where recording could compromise a person’s dignity, privacy or safety (for example, whilst in bathrooms).
Use of Footage
Footage is automatically uploaded to a secure system when the device is docked after use. Recordings are automatically deleted after 28 days unless they are required as evidence following an incident report or investigation.
Only authorised staff can access footage. All access is logged and monitored. Footage cannot be viewed or deleted from the camera itself. Original recordings cannot be altered. Where required, authorised staff may create a redacted copy to protect privacy.
Patients and visitors will know when recording is taking place as BWCs are clearly visible. When recording, a red light is displayed, and staff will provide a verbal warning where practical. Signage and privacy information will also be available.