City and Sandwell Hospitals Outfit Nurses with Body Cameras

Nurses and other staff on the frontline at two hospitals are being issued with Calla body-worn cameras to try to deter violence and anti-social behaviour.

It is part of measures to reduce aggression against patients and staff at City Hospital and Sandwell hospitals.

Last year more than a quarter of the hospital's staff said they had been subject to at least one incident of bullying, abuse or harassment, while one in seven reported violence.

The cameras have been commissioned to deter and gather evidence against perpetrators. The trust is one of several nationally to introduce Calla body cameras designed especially for sectors such as healthcare.

Staff who are fearful of incidents can activate the camera at any time but must first announce they are doing so.

The Calla cameras are just a little larger than a smartwatch and are attached to the staff member's uniform at chest height.

Among those wearing a camera during the pilot scheme is Natalie Whitton, Matron for Primary Care, Community, and Therapies. She is among a small number of staff trialling them and is pictured wearing the camera above.