Supporting Safety, Transparency and Accountability

The Scottish Prison Service is committed to creating safe and secure environments for everyone who lives, works in and visits our establishments.

As part of this commitment, we are introducing Body Worn Video Cameras (BWVCs) across Scotland's prisons.

BWVCs will help enhance safety and security, while supporting transparency, accountability and professionalism throughout the prison estate.

  • Body Worn Video Cameras are small cameras worn by prison staff that can record video and audio during specific situations. They are designed to provide an accurate record of events and help establish a clear understanding of what has taken place during an incident.

  • The introduction of Body Worn Video Cameras aims to:

    • enhance the safety, security and good order of establishments;
    • support the safety, wellbeing and welfare of those in our care, staff and visitors;
    • act as a deterrent against committing or being involved in criminal activity or alleged breaches of Prison Rules;
    • promote transparency, trust and confidence between staff and those in our care; and
    • de-escalate conflict or confrontation. 

  • Body Worn Video Cameras are not used to record continuously. Staff may activate a camera when there is a legitimate operational reason to do so, including:

    • Managing incidents or emergencies.
    • Responding to actual or threatened violence.
    • Recording evidence following an incident.
    • Supporting the safe management of challenging situations.
    • Protecting staff, people in our care and visitors.

    Where operationally possible, staff will make those present aware that recording has started. Cameras are used openly and are not intended for covert purposes.

Protecting Privacy and Personal Information

The SPS recognises the importance of privacy and data protection. All recordings are managed in accordance with relevant legislation and SPS policies. Access to footage is restricted to authorised personnel and recordings are retained, reviewed and deleted in line with established procedures and legal requirements. Information captured by cameras is handled securely and only used for legitimate operational purposes.  

The management and governance of Body Worn Video Cameras follows a similar approach to that already in place for CCTV systems across the prison estate. Responsibility for the management of BWVC sits with the Head of Operations at each establishment, who ensures that the technology is used appropriately, lawfully and in accordance with SPS policy.

If you have any questions, concerns or requests relating to the use of Body Worn Video Cameras, please contact the Head of Operations at the relevant establishment in the first instance.

Benefits for Families and the Public

The use of Body Worn Video Cameras can provide reassurance that significant incidents are recorded accurately and objectively. By creating a reliable record of events, the technology can:

  • Increase confidence in decision-making and incident investigations
  • Support fair and transparent outcomes
  • Improve understanding of incidents when reviews are required
  • Strengthen accountability across the prison service