Issue - meetings

The Body Worn Video Policy was introduced by the Cabinet Member for Corporate Governance and Licensing.

It was identified by officers and senior managers that Body Worn Video would

be a useful tool to support officers’ personal safety, reduce incidents of abuse or aggression, provide an accurate record of events, and increase transparency and accountability and where necessary to capture best evidence.

This use of this Policy applied to functions carried out within the following

regulatory services: 

-       Public Protection (this includes Environmental Health, Environmental Protection, Private Sector Housing, Community Safety (Neighbourhoods) and Licensing) 

-       Development Management

-       Building Control

-       Finance

-       Tenancy Services

This BWV Policy supports compliance with legal standards, including the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA), the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA), and the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

During discussions, Members commented on the following:

-       It was queried whether body worn video recordings would be transmitted immediately or would need to be manually downloaded at the end of the shift. Whilst the equipment had not yet been purchased, it was indicated that the cameras in question would usually require the footage downloading at the end of the shift.

-       It was confirmed that the Data Protection Impact Assessments would be signed off prior to the scheme’s roll out.

-       Members debated whether notifying an individual that an officer was turning on their body worn camera would escalate or de-escalate a situation. The Head of Service (Public Protection) confirmed that the rollout would be accompanied by relevant situational training.

-       A Member noted that the cameras could be effective in protecting both parties involved. However, noted concern about potential accusations of when the officer chose to turn the camera on and off. Alternatively, the Member suggested the cameras being on for the duration of visits. The Head of Service noted that an operational procedure would be formed, considering this factor.

-       Clarity was sought about the service areas that the body worn cameras would predominantly aid. This was confirmed to be visiting and patrolling officers across the district.

-       Members noted concern about any underage children being visible in the footage. The Head of Service (Public Protection) acknowledged that this would also be considered during the procedure setting process.

-       It was confirmed that any body worn cameras purchased would capture volume and officers would seek to purchase cameras capable of night vision.

-       A Member noted that they did not want the use of body worn cameras to encourage dangerous lone working. It was confirmed by officers that this would not be the case.

Following discussions, it was proposed, seconded, and AGREED to recommend the policy to Cabinet for approval.