New Safety Initiative: Bodycam Consultation by Belfast Trust

Belfast Health Trust is gearing up to launch a public consultation on the use of body worn cameras for staff in Emergency Departments (ED) this summer. Joint Strategy with PSNI

Concerns over public safety at the Royal Victoria Hospital have prompted the Trust to confirm a joint strategy with the PSNI to address issues like antisocial behavior, drug usage, and drug dealing on the premises.Client Update and Council Meeting

The update on the use of 'bodycams' was shared during a recent meeting with Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council. Alastair Campbell, the director of performance, planning, and informatics at the Trust, stated that they are in discussions with staff regarding a proposed pilot of wearing bodycams in EDs. Efforts to Combat Drug Misuse

The Trust's chief had previously mentioned the deployment of sniffer dogs by the PSNI to catch drug dealers in the ED, with illegal activities also observed throughout the hospital site. The compact recording devices, designed to be attached to staff uniforms, can be activated with a single touch when necessary to capture video and audio. Collaborative Measures

PSNI Chief Inspector Claire Hamilton emphasized the ongoing collaboration with communities and partner agencies to reduce the risk of harmful and illegal activities. She encouraged the public to report any information regarding drug supply, possession, or misuse to the authorities.