SIA-approved contractor ISS Mediclean trialled the Robocam mobile CCTV units, supplied by Interconnective Limited. Such body-cams are being used by UK police forces, and also being introduced into the private security sector. ISS Mediclean is finalising deployment of the Robocam body cameras throughout its business with the first two sites being the Chelsea & Westminster; and Worcester, hospitals.

Trevor Post, Security Manager, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, says: "The body cameras have reduced our incidents of verbal abuse by 60 per cent and recorded incidents of aggression by 29pc. We are now looking to purchase permanent units for the hospital."

Nick Holden, Head of Security for ISS Mediclean, says: "We understand that as a preferred ‘Supplier of Choice’, we need security services which provide our clients with controls that ensure the safest environment possible. We look to use not just a manned presence to prevent and deter crime but to link this with technology based systems to support both ISS Mediclean and its clients in providing the best customer experience possible. Whilst the company appreciates the sensitivity surrounding security in hospitals we strongly believe that it is necessary to have clear and objective goals which fulfill the needs of the Trust, patients and other stakeholders. We believe that the technology based systems we use do not just improve the security of a hospital but have a positive impact upon all clinical and non clinical departments. I believe that the use of body camera technology will greatly reduce incidents of violence, aggression and acts of anti social behaviour whilst supporting the police and NHS prosecutions against those who commit crime."

As well as the body cameras ISS Mediclean has been working over the last 12 months to ensure its officers have the training and equipment available to deal with the volatile environment they have to work in.

Nick Holden, a member of The Security institute, adds: "As well as the body cameras all the officers wear the last technology in body armour also supplied by Interconnective Ltd and received physical intervention training to nationally recognized standards. We also have just had a single batch of 47 security officers complete the Level 2 Security Practitioner qualification and look to complete the rest by the end of the year."