Cameras in Care Homes

Inspectors at the Care Quality Commission (CQC) issued guidance earlier this year for people considering hidden cameras and for care homes themselves considering surveillance equipment. The CQC’s Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care, Andrea Sutcliffe, said:

“We all want people using health and social care services to receive safe, effective, high quality and compassionate care. It is what everyone has a right to expect.

“Sadly, we know that does not always happen and the anxiety and distress this causes people, either for themselves or a loved one, is simply awful.

“For some, cameras or other forms of surveillance, whether openly used by services or hidden by families, are the answer. Others feel this is an invasion of people’s privacy and dignity. Many don't know what to do if they are concerned.

“Our information for the public explains what people can do if they are worried about someone’s care and the things they need to think about if they are considering using any form of recording equipment.”

Sources: www.independent.co.uk , www.cqc.org.uk