Body worn video devices

The purpose of using a body worn video device is to:

• Serve as a deterrent to acts of aggression or verbal and physical abuse
• Help to protect officers at work (for Health and Safety purposes)
• Capture images close up, including audio recording
• Allow the officer to maintain the use of his/her hands and enforcement equipment whilst recording an incident

The technology will be used by the council's Civil Enforcement Team whose officers deal with parking enforcement. 

Civil Enforcement Officers will have received training in the use of body-worn cameras including:

• Practical use of equipment
• On-street operational guidance i.e. when to commence and cease recording
• Legal implications of using such equipment

The body worn video device will be used in an overt manner. Before recording, officers will give a clear verbal instruction that recording is about to take place (unless in an emergency situation).

Civil Enforcement Officers will activate the camera when they:

• Have an engagement with a member of the public which, in the opinion of the officer, is confrontational and where they believe that they may be subject to physical or verbal abuse
• Encounter a situation in which they are approached by a member of the public in a manner perceived as aggressive or threatening