Body-worn cameras for Ulster Hospital Emergency Department staff from next week

It’s hoped the introduction of the cameras at the hospital from next Monday will help to improve staff safety

Body worn cameras are to be introduced for staff working in a Northern Ireland hospital’s Emergency Department from next week in a bid to combat increasing violent attacks and abuse.

The South Eastern Trust recorded 1911 incidents of violence and aggression towards staff, between April to December last year, which it says is “completely unacceptable”. It’s hoped the introduction of the cameras in the Ulster Hospital’s ED will help improve staff safety.

The Trust said it does not tolerate any form of abuse, aggression or violence towards its staff, who are working hard to care for people when they are at their most vulnerable.

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Staff who choose to wear the devices from next Monday will attach them to their uniforms and can activate the cameras if they feel unsafe or if a situation begins to escalate. Once activated, the cameras will record both video and audio.

Staff who are wearing the cameras will announce when the device is being activated and when recording has stopped.

Clinical Manager for Emergency Medicine, Maggie Magowan said: “Every day, our staff come to work with one purpose, to care for people who may be frightened, in pain, or going through some of their most difficult moments of their lives. Providing safe, compassionate and respectful care is at the heart of everything we do.

“It is deeply distressing that we continue to see increasing levels of violence and aggression directed towards our staff. No one should ever feel afraid while doing their job, especially when that job is to support and protect some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”

Director of Unscheduled Care, Medicine & Cancer Services, Marc Neil added: “The introduction of body worn cameras is a supportive measure designed to help keep our staff safe. These cameras will only be activated if a member of staff feels unsafe or a situation begins to escalate.

“Our goal is always to de‑escalate and to prevent harm and we hope the presence of these cameras will reassure staff, while also acting as a deterrent to aggressive behaviour.

“We want our teams to know that their wellbeing matters deeply to us. We are committed to doing everything we can to make their working environment as safe and supportive as possible. Staff deserve to feel protected, valued, and cared for, just as they care so tirelessly for others.”

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