Care homes provider HC-One is considering installing CCTV cameras in residential care homes to monitor the standards of care older people receive.
The move aims to “protect the wellbeing and dignity of those we support,” according to HC-One chairman Dr Chai Patel.
The company carried out a survey of 2,000 adults earlier this month which showed 36% strongly supported the installation of visible cameras in care homes and a further 44% somewhat supported it. Only 14% said they opposed the idea.
The company announced it was considering introducing CCTV in its homes ahead of a BBC1 Panorama programme to be aired this week which will show secretly filmed footage of residents in care homes (one home owned by HC-One) which showed them being mistreated and neglected.
Dr Patel, who has seen the footage which dates back to 2012, said the filming had revealed “shocking and distressing failings” that had been acted upon as soon as it was drawn to the company’s attention. But he added that more needed to be done to ensure the safety of residents. He said: “We do not tolerate this kind of behaviour and we remain deeply sorry to the resident and their family. As soon as we became aware of the situation we took immediate action.”
Read more on this story
The Guardian: Care homes chain to use CCTV in residents’ rooms to help stop abuse
Nursing Times: HC-One may install CCTV in care homes in wake of secretly filmed abuse
Inside Housing: Care provider considering CCTV in all homes