Issue - meetings

(A report by Christian Allen, Assistant Director – Regulatory)

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Dale Broughton, presented a report by the Assistant Director – Regulatory which sought Cabinet’s approval of the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership Body Worn Video (BWV) Policy 2025.

Cabinet was informed that body worn video cameras were increasingly used by council officers in enforcement roles, both to gather evidence and to deter abuse or aggression. The use of such devices was subject to strict regulation to protect individuals’ rights and ensure that any personal data captured was securely managed.

Councillor Broughton explained that the policy had been developed to ensure that BWV was only used by trained staff and only in circumstances where its use was lawful, proportionate, legitimate and necessary. The policy set out clear procedures for the management of video evidence, including storage, retention, reproduction and disposal.

The policy had been considered by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee at its meeting on 17 July 2025 and was supported without amendment. The Committee had welcomed the policy as a further example of effective partnership working.

Cabinet welcomed the policy and acknowledged the importance of ensuring that body worn video was used appropriately and in line with legal and ethical standards. Members noted the safeguards built into the policy and the clarity it provided for officers using BWV in operational settings.

The support of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee was noted, and the policy was recognised as a positive step in enhancing officer safety and public confidence.

The recommendations were moved by Councillor Dale Broughton and seconded by Councillor Sarah Sharpe.

Resolved:

1.    That the report, policy and any feedback from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 17 July 2025 be noted and the Body Worn Video Policy approved; and

2.    That delegated authority be given to the Assistant Director Regulatory / Senior Responsible Officer, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder, to make such amendments to this policy as may from time to time be required in order to (i) reference any links or amended links to other documents as may be required; and (ii) reflect any issues over which the Council has no discretion including, but not limited to, references to any legislative changes and amended guidance. Any material amendments to the policy will be subject to the usual approval process in line with the Constitution.