Pilot security scheme to be rolled out

A pilot security scheme is to be launched at Cambridge University Hospitals.

Existing security staff have been put through a stringent vetting and training process by police to become Accredited Persons. An Accredited Person (AP) has the power to issue £80 fixed penalty notices for disorder and can demand the name and address of anyone acting in an anti-social manner.

The 12-month trial Community Safety Accreditation Scheme is in conjunction with Cambridgeshire Constabulary and is the first of its kind in the Cambridge area. Security staff on the CUH site are provided by specialist security contractor APCOA. A total of eight staff will act as APs.

Peter Lester, Trust Security Advisor, approached police to set up the trial scheme.
He said: “We’re very proud that we provide a safe environment for patients, staff and visitors. There are very few incidents across the site and this scheme will only enhance our existing high standards. We’re also very pleased that the pilot gives us the opportunity to further develop a strong working relationship with police.”

APs will wear a high-visibility uniform and display a badge. The eight APs will be presented with their badges by Superintendent Mike Brown of Cambridgeshire police at a launch ceremony on Tuesday 21 July.

Superintendent Brown said: "This is about modern day policing in the 21st Century where there's more to policing than just the police. We have seen the introduction of PCSOs joining the police family and the success we have enjoyed from that. Today represents a step forward for Cambridgeshire Constabulary and a widening of the police family further.

“This is about bestowing certain limited powers upon staff at the Addenbrooke's site to assist in overseeing the management of security, particularly incidents of anti-social behaviour. We are building on a strong relationship that already exists between our neighbourhood policing team and the security staff at Addenbrooke's and this will be an opportunity to further enhance the knowledge and information that we share."

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