Body cameras to deter aggression in hospitals

The hospital trust which runs Grimsby, Scunthorpe and Goole hospitals says new digital body cameras worn by security staff will act as a deterrent if anyone starts being physically or verbally abusive but may also provide footage for use in prosecutions.

Northern Lincolnshire and Goole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, which has a zero-tolerance policy against violence or abuse of staff, visitors and patients, will not disclose how many of the mobile cameras there are.

Staff will wear high-visibility green armbands identifying them as a mobile CCTV operator.

Before starting to film they will warn people their behaviour is unacceptable and their intention is to record it.

The trust says they do not have more of a problem with assaults and violence than anywhere else.