Kent c-store introduces body-worn cameras to protect staff

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Premier Eldred Drive Stores in Orpington, Kent, introduced body-worn cameras for its staff on Friday (11 September) after an increase in attacks since lockdown.

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Owner Anita Nye told Talking Retail that there has been three physical attacks on staff since lockdown began at the end of March, while verbal attacks were “too many to mention”.

Nye said: “It took a while for the staff to get used to the cameras because they stick out a bit, but it’s been fine, it makes them feel safer. At the moment they aren’t recording, we are just using them as a deterrent, but if they feel something is going to happen they are easy to switch on.”

She added: “The cameras cost £199 each from Amazon – we just got two to test, but we will probably buy more, a slightly cheaper version. I would 100% recommend body-worm cameras to all retailers.”

Nye, who has worked in the store for 35 years, said the attacks have “spoilt things”. “I don’t want to do things for the community anymore. I know it’s the wrong attitude, but it’s how I feel.”

The store will not be holding its usual Halloween celebration this year because of the pandemic. “Maybe it will give the community a gentle reminder of what we actually do for them,” Nye added.