With distressing news reports hitting headlines in recent years, those managing care homes may be acutely aware of the need to protect their tenants and reduce the likelihood of criminal activity by installing security cameras to monitor staff.
Appropriate surveillance measures to safeguard vulnerable residents
While there is no legal requirement for a care home to have a CCTV system installed, there are numerous benefits and legislation you must comply with if deciding to install cameras. So you have a better understanding of how installing cameras in your premises will impact you, here’s an outline of the benefits and laws you must adhere to.
Why install CCTV?
Unfortunately, there have been a number of reported incidents of theft and abuse in care homes that have harmed residents and care home’s reputations. Installation of CCTV throughout the premises means workers and residents are monitored limiting the potential for harm to be caused.
With visible cameras installed in common areas, staff and residents can be monitored without being obtrusive. Visible CCTV also limits the potential of relatives installing covert cameras and building upon concerns.
Legislation you must comply with
Choosing to install CCTV means you must meet with strict legal requirements. As with all CCTV installed by companies, you must notify the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) that you are doing so and why.
You must also comply with the Data Protection Act 1998, the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 and the Human Rights Act 1998 and should inform next of kin and relations of your decision to install cameras in writing.
For more in-depth information, please refer to Using Surveillance by the Care Quality Commission.
BWS Standfast install and maintain CCTV systems in Swindon, Gloucester and Bath, for care homes and other residential homes. For more information about the type of cameras suited to your needs, or to receive a free survey, please get in touch with a member of our team today.
