The Department of Human Services (DHS) is to expand a closed circuit television (CCTV) pilot program in disability homes run by the State to safeguard people living with disability.
DHS said that following a successful South Australian-first three-month trial, a further $120,000 was to be allocated to trial cameras in at least five additional homes.
The Department said that no significant incidents were captured during the trial which involved 10 clients in two accommodation homes.
It said the expanded trial would enable more data to be collected which may include video capture of critical incidents.
Minister for Human Services, Michelle Lensink said any abuse or neglect against vulnerable South Australians was unacceptable and the safety and wellbeing of clients and staff were priorities.
“Not only do CCTV cameras act as a potential deterrent, their use has the potential to add an additional layer of safety and security for people living with disability, as well as for staff and that’s why we’ve made the decision to expand this trial to more homes,” Ms Lensink said.
She said DHS disability services assisted approximately 500 people with a range of complex, high-risk needs supported by 1,500 frontline staff.
Ms Lensink said the expanded CCTV pilot was one of several safeguarding measures implemented in recent years including the Zero Tolerance to Abuse and Neglect Policy; increased education and training for staff on how to recognise and report suspected abuse or neglect; increased supervision in group homes; internal and external auditing; recruitment of quality and safeguarding officers; and improved reporting through anonymous complaints option for staff, clients and families.
