Greater Manchester Police awarded for use of camera technology

GMP awarded for their use of camera technology

Greater Manchester Police has become one of the first police forces to be awarded by the Government for its use of body worn cameras.

The certificate was awarded to GMP in recognition of its compliance with a number of set guidelines related to the use of body worn camera surveillance.

GMP, along with only the Metropolitan Police, has demonstrated that it complies with all 12 of the guiding principles of the surveillance camera code, which the Government has legislated for all police forces in England and Wales to show due regard to.

In order to achieve full certification auditors had to independently judge GMP on a number of principles, including an individual’s right to privacy, safeguards against unauthorised access and to ensure that all surveillance materials are destroyed when no longer required.

Achieving full certification means that the public of Greater Manchester can be reassured that GMP is complying with the code and use body worn video (BWV) technology, and the information gathered, in the most appropriate manner possible.

GMP Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts, said: “Receiving this certification clearly demonstrates our commitment at GMP to use body worn cameras effectively and proportionally.

“This technology will continue to aid us in the fight against crime, and the general public can be assured that their right to privacy is maintained.”

Tony Porter, the Government’s Surveillance Camera Commissioner who awarded GMP the award, said: “I am delighted Greater Manchester Police has achieved my certification mark for Body Worn Video. GMP, together with the Metropolitan Police, are the first forces to have achieved this award nationally.

“It is important that the public recognise that such technology is used to the highest standards. Certification demonstrates compliance to the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice, that its use is transparent and that it places public privacy as a priority.

“Ultimately it will ensure ongoing public support in the use of this technology that is there to support the police in its work and reassure the community as to its use.”