Should care homes have CCTV?

Jenny Moore, founder of Your Voice Matters Campaign

Des Kelly, executive director of the National Care Forum

YES

"Your Voice Matters is 110 per cent behind the idea of CCTV installation in all care homes.

The police recognised a long time ago that installing CCTV in station cells protected them and those in their custody.

Nurseries looking after babies and small children have CCTV, as do supermarkets and shopping centres.

The only way to expose care failings for the most vulnerable is to do what Panorama did – film it.

Relatives who have concerns about physical abuse would be reassured. There would be no pressure on good carers to whistle blow, which can lead to disastrous results for them in terms of bullying, depression and at worse losing their job.

I would anticipate poor carer workers would leave as they would not appreciate being picked up on their failings. It would also need to be monitored by a totally independent body, not connected to the care home or local government.

NO

"The issue of surveillance is one which has been in the news quite a bit recently with families taking the decision that installing hidden cameras in care homes and peoples own homes is the only way to ensure that they are adequately protected.

The sector needs to have the discussion about the use of covert surveillance.

Clearly safeguarding people considered vulnerable is vital and a ‘zero tolerance’ attitude towards abuse is an important message for care providers to convey.

It is difficult to see how a policy to use covert surveillance would be justified unless there were strong suspicions or evidence. Professional and thorough recruitment systems, clear policies and procedures reinforcing person-centred approaches, induction, on-going training opportunities, support and regular supervision, ought to be the best means of ensuring staff deliver quality care and support."