CCTV

Summary

CCTV is essential for monitoring the welfare of detainees and preventing crime. Police forces must have a clear policy that outlines the CCTV system's purpose, ensures compliance with the Data Protection Act, and mentions who is responsible for its operation. The retention of images must be limited to what is necessary for the intended purpose, and access to footage should be strictly controlled. Surveillance should respect detainees' privacy, with certain areas like healthcare rooms excluded from coverage. Planning must consider areas of CCTV installation, ensuring the necessity and proportionality of monitoring. Monitoring must not replace physical wellbeing checks, and continual observation procedures must be documented for accountability. Legal guidelines also address matters such as independent custody visitors' access to CCTV footage. Overall, implementation requires balancing safety, legal compliance, and privacy considerations for both detainees and staff.

Key principles

• 1Establish a clear CCTV policy in line with legal requirements.
• 2Control access to footage to protect individual rights.
• 3Monitor detainee welfare while ensuring privacy measures are in place.
• 4Provide signage about CCTV use to inform detainees and public.
• 5Ensure independence and constraints regarding independent custody visitors' access.

Defined terms

Independent custody visitors (ICVs)

Volunteers who check on the treatment of detainees during police custody.

Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA)

Legislation that governs the collection and use of personal data.

Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) Code C

Regulations that provide guidelines on the detention and questioning of arrested persons.

Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act 1996

Legislation that sets out the framework for disclosure of evidence during investigations.