LTB 254/24 - Post Office – Body Worn Cameras: Revised National Agreement
No: 254/24
Dear Colleagues,
POST OFFICE – BODY WORN CAMERAS: REVISED NATIONAL AGREEMENT
Branches and Post Office members are advised that a revised National Agreement has been reached with Post Office and endorsed by our Postal Executive with regards to Body Worn Cameras for our Supply Chain Crew Members. The Agreement is attached and the Joint Statement below has been agreed:
DEPLOYMENT, USE AND OPERATION OF BODY WORN CAMERAS
We are working hard to improve health, safety and wellbeing within Supply Chain and as part of this, we are determined to reduce the risk of criminal attacks.
In February 2019, following a 12-month trial, we rolled out Cameras (Body Worn Cameras) on high-risk routes.
We are now replacing the existing Cameras (BWCs) currently in use on high-risk routes with an upgraded version. The wearing of Cameras will adjust dynamically based on changes in risk levels – whether they increase or decrease and will be a mandatory requirement.
We are also deploying cameras on the remaining routes and although use will not be mandatory CWU and Post Office encourage crews to wear them as we believe these cameras can play a valuable role in crime prevention, acting as a visual deterrent, and helping to identify, apprehend and prosecute offenders.
Colleagues will be supplied with suitable clips/attachments as part of the uniform to enable the fastening and wearing of the cameras which will be worn on duty.
All Colleagues will receive full training, so they are completely clear on how to charge the cameras, wear them and navigate through the on-screen menus.
As part of this rollout the National Agreement for the Deployment, Use and Operation of Body Worn Camera’s has been updated. Please do check out the agreement (attached with this communication).
We will regularly review the success of the use of Camera’s, and we welcome your feedback. If you have any questions, feedback or concerns, please contact your line manager or CWU representative.
Russell Hancock Andy Furey
Post Office Supply Chain Director CWU Assistant Secretary
Since the original Agreement there have been no problems reported with the equipment or its use and the deployment of BWC’s has been successful.
It is important to note that the BWCs act as a deterrent to criminals and help to safeguard the wellbeing of crew members by reducing the risk of criminal robberies and attacks.
Our Crew Members have full control of the BWC and are able to use their initiative in deciding when to use the record function. Also, the agreement is clear that footage/data from the BWC will not be used for disciplinary purposes.
Yours sincerely,
Andy Furey
Assistant Secretary
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