Stab vests and cameras for hospital guards

HOSPITAL security guards have been armed with stab vests and video cameras in a bid to reduce attacks on medical staff in Scunthorpe.

The digital devices will be attached to staff uniforms to record sound and video which can be used as evidence in court against anyone who is verbally or physically abusive towards staff at Scunthorpe General Hospital.

Staff will also be issued with high-visibility uniforms and stab proof vests as part of a £12,500 investment by ISS Mediclean which provides security services for the hospital.

Jug Johal, head of transport, car parking and security for Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Hospitals Foundation Trust, said the cameras were the latest in a series of steps taken to protect staff.

"Our message is clear – violence and abuse at our hospitals will not be tolerated," he said.

"We believe that the use of body camera technology will act as a deterrent which in turn will help to reduce incidents of violence, aggression and acts of anti-social behaviour.

"They will also support police and NHS prosecutions against those who commit crimes against trust staff, property, patients and visitors."

Security staff will activate the cameras only when they feel threatened and will first warn an attacker they are about to be caught on camera.

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