Salford Royal are amongst four hospitals in Greater Manchester that will ask its Frontline Staff to wear Bodyworn Cameras. The cameras will also be introduced in Rochdale and Oldham, with the cameras staying in Bury.

The cameras would only be activated if a member of staff felt threatened and they would inform the patient first that they are turning the camera on. According to the Northern Care Alliance, the footage will be used to aid investigations as well as a deterrent.

The aim of the scheme is to create a safer environment for both staff and patients, with the Head of Security from the Northern Care Alliance, Andy Wignall, saying “I welcome the introduction of these devices; our emergency workers should be able to undertake their jobs without fear of abuse and assault.”

It follows a trial at Fairfield General Hospital in Bury last year. Julie Newton is a lead nurse at the hospital who thought the scheme helped to create a “safer, more respectful environment.” She added “Unfortunately, incidents of violence and aggression do occur, and these devices provide an objective record that helps ensure situations are managed safely and appropriately.”

Suzanne Robinson, the Deputy Chief Executive of the Northern Care Alliance, is hopeful that the new cameras will help to create a safer environment. She added “Despite challenging circumstances our colleagues always strive to ensure the best care possible for patients. While we understand being in hospital can be an anxious and unsettling time for patients and their families, abuse of staff is unacceptable.”

The changes follow a report by NHS England in 2025 which found that 1 in 7 NHS Staff experienced physical violence from patients, which is a rise from 2024.