Torbay Council would like to hear your views on a new trial of body worn cameras.

These cameras will be worn by staff who are often lone workers, like Parking Enforcement Officers, Dog Wardens, Security and Town Centre staff who have all seen a rise in attacks.

The trial started this month and will continue until the 18 October.

As well as being a support to staff where violence or aggression is anticipated or already commenced, they will also aid with any criminal proceedings, for example when dog fouling or littering is witnessed.

Footage taken by these cameras are encrypted and all data is automatically downloaded and deleted from the device. It is then stored on secure databases and automatically deleted from this storage after 31 days if there is no request to use the footage due to criminal proceedings.

Councillor Robert Excel, Executive Lead for Community Services, said: “I want to reassure our residents that the use of body worn cameras is primarily for the protection of our staff, as we have seen an increase in violence and aggression towards them, which is simply not acceptable. These types of cameras not only deters this type of behaviour towards officers but it also provides a clear record if criminal or civil proceedings need to take place.

“We would like to hear from our residents about their thoughts on these type of cameras being used to protect our staff and to help with criminal proceedings. If you come into contact with one of our officers who is trialling these cameras you will also be handed a slip which will inform you of this and encouraging you to let us know your views on this through the consultation.”

The consultation can be found online at www.torbay.gov.uk/body-worn-cameras-consultation

Following the trial, an evaluation will take place which will include how the equipment has worked for the officers, the impact on incidents of aggression and assaults as well as the results of the consultation.