SEN Space Care and Respite Services is securely monitored by a CCTV surveillance system. The CEO and Manager is responsible for the operation of the system for ensuring compliance with this policy.

 

We recognise that the use of CCTV has become a common feature of our daily lives and while its use is generally accepted, CCTV operators have certain duties and responsibilities to those whose images are caught on camera.

 

SEN Space complies with the Information Commissioners CCTV Code of Practice to ensure it is used responsibly and safeguards both trust and confidence in its continued use.

 

The use of CCTV and the associated images is covered by the Data Protection Act 1998. This policy outlines SEN Space’s use of CCTV and how it complies with the Act and is associated with the settings Data Protection policy, the provisions of which should always be adhered to.

 

 

The System comprises of fixed position cameras, a monitor, and a digital hard drive recorder. Cameras are located at strategic points on the premises. No camera is hidden from view, and all will be prevented from focusing on areas of private accommodation such as toilets. Signs are prominently placed at the entrance and exit points of the site to inform staff, children, parents, and visitor that a CCTV installation is in use. The digital recorder and single effectiveness of the limited system it is not possible to guarantee that the system will detect every incident taking place on the site.

 

 

Purpose of the System

 

 

The CCTV system has been installed by SEN Space with the primary purpose of monitoring:

 

• Staff interaction with children

• Ensuring children are appropriately cared for.

• Facilitate the identification of any activities/event which might warrant disciplinary proceedings being taken against staff and assist in providing evidence to the CEO / Manager

• Reducing the threat of a child being abducted

• Damaged to the building.

• Theft

• Assist in the prevention and detection of crime.

• Helping ensure the safety of all the users, staff, children, parents, and visitors, consistent with the respect for the individual’s privacy.

• Deter those having criminal intent.

 

The system will not be used to provide images for the world-wide-web or record any sound.

 

 

Recording

Digital recordings are made using a digital video recorder operating in real mode, monitoring the site continuously 24 hours a day. Images will normally be retained for between 14-21 days from the date of the recording and they will then automatically overwritten.

 

 

 

Access

Viewing of the recorded images of CCTV will be restricted to the Board of Directors (in relation to an allegation or Child Protection Issue), CEO and Manager. Out of SEN Space hours, the owner will have access to CCTV images via secure remote access to assist in maintaining the security of the premises. This is not a “webcam” facility; parents will not have access to view recordings. In relation to child protection concerns, the Early Years Team and other professions may view the footage needed for an investigation. We will also let parents see footage, if management decide it is necessary, but only if other children are not identifiable.

 

 

Niall Malley Fire and Alarm Services are responsible for maintaining the CCTV equipment, and this is serviced every 12 months.

 

 

Written by Vikki Benton 26/9/2023

To be reviewed 26/9/2024