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Body cameras introduced as violence and aggression towards hospital staff doubles
17/01/2022
In November 2021 the number of reported cases had risen to 180
The number of reported incidents of violent and aggressive behaviour towards staff working for the Oxford University Hospitals Trust has more than doubled in the last year. Now, some emergency department medical staff will be given body cameras to wear.
In November 2020 there were 80 reported incidents around violence and aggression. In November 2021 the number reported had risen to 180.
The Trust has launched a campaign to urge people using local health and care services to treat staff with kindness and respect as the pandemic continues. The ‘There’s No Excuse’ campaign highlights the impact that abusive behaviour can have on NHS staff during the course of their work.
Sam Foster, Chief Nursing Officer at OUH, said: “Everyone should be entitled to work in an environment where they feel safe and free from aggression or abuse. The majority of people treated by our staff are grateful for the care they receive, and we’re grateful to them for continuing to give staff the respect and kindness they deserve.
“However, we have seen an increase in aggression and abuse towards our health and care staff in a range of settings. This is completely unacceptable, and the campaign message is very clear that it will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
The campaign is also running alongside a three-month trial of body cameras for medical staff in the Emergency Department at the John Radcliffe Hospital. Originally worn just by Security staff, designated medical staff will also wear body cameras to keep themselves and patients safe.
The use of the body cameras for medical staff started today in an attempt to help deter hospital visitors from being aggressive. The cameras will help to identify and prosecute any offenders. The camera will only be switched on when an individual is being violent or abusive, and only after they’ve been told that they’re about to be recorded.
Terry Roberts, Chief People Officer at OUH, said: “Our staff have been absolutely incredible throughout the COVID-19 pandemic; consistently putting the needs of our patients before their own; and every member of our dedicated and hardworking staff has the fundamental right to be safe at work and it is our priority to eliminate violence and abuse.
“Violent and aggressive behaviour, be that against our staff or other patients or visitors, has absolutely no place in our hospitals and will not be tolerated.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam