STATE-of-the-art digital equipment is switching off anti-social behaviour at Warrington Hospital.
Patient, public and staff safety is high on the agenda of the security team at Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust as they introduce VIEVU, a body worn overt CCTV camera to assist them in tackling anti social behaviour. 
The light weight cameras can be used to film individuals or groups of people taking part in verbal or physical abuse and used as evidence in a prosecution if required.
If security staff are called to an incident on the hospital premises and the individual involved does not co-operate on sight of the officer, then they will be informed that their behaviour will be filmed and may be used in a prosecution.
There are three cameras – one for the day shift, one for the night shift and a spare. They have been in operation for several weeks now and have only had to be switched on twice so far. They have acted as a deterrent – once confronted with the option of being recorded in their verbal abuse, the individual has calmed down.
The idea of introducing the cameras was developed from the working partnership with the local Police Neighbourhood Action Teams. PCSO’s have been wearing them out on foot patrol in the local communities and have found them an effective tool in deterring anti-social behaviour.
The hospital security team is headed up by Chris Todd, who said: “We have a small, but significant problem with anti social behaviour on site at the hospital, in particular with people who are drunk. When I saw how effective the VIEVU had been locally for Cheshire Constabulary, I did not hesitate to consider introducing them here to enhance the work of our security team.
“The equipment is a benefit to patients, staff and to members of the public visiting the hospital, just knowing that we are working hard to ensure their safety is peace of mind.”
Pictured… hospital security men (left to right) Brett Dimelow, Chris Todd and Bob Rathmil with their cameras.
