The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust to fund further lightweight bodyworn camera use
Lightweight bodyworn cameras have been funded following a successful three month trial introduction.
The decision supports the Trust’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment for colleagues to care for patients. The cameras are used during active incidents to deter abuse of Trust colleagues. When wearing cameras, colleagues feel more confident in challenging negative behaviour towards them.
The lightweight bodyworn camera trial took place between March and June. In April, footage caught by these cameras was key to South Yorkshire Police successfully prosecuting one man who abused Trust colleagues.
Camera footage has also helped the Trust take positive action against a further 16 individuals. 14 received conduct warning letters and two were issued banning letters during this time. Letter outcomes are effective for 12 months, following which they are reviewed again.
Michael Wright, Managing Director of The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, chairs the Trust’s violence reduction group. “We are committed to ensuring our colleagues feel secure while caring for our patients and tackling the abuse they face. By funding and using these cameras, we hope to encourage more positive conduct towards our colleagues by those visiting or using our services.”