Petition Protect education staff and pupils by piloting body-worn cameras in Welsh schools
We call on the Welsh Government to fund an independent pilot of body-worn cameras in Welsh schools where there is evidence of serious violence, abuse or behavioural incidents. The pilot should assess whether body-worn cameras help improve safety, reduce false allegations, de-escalate incidents and support fair investigations, while operating under strict safeguarding, data protection and privacy rules.
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Violence and abuse towards education staff in Wales is an increasing concern. Senedd Research reported that Welsh local authorities recorded 6,446 violent incidents in schools during the 2023/24 academic year, up from 4,714 the previous year. Teacher surveys have also found high levels of verbal and physical abuse experienced by school staff.
This petition applies to all frontline education staff, including teachers, supply teachers, PGCE student teachers, teaching assistants, ALN staff, learning support assistants, cover supervisors and school leaders.
Body-worn cameras are already used by police, NHS staff and other frontline public sector workers to help de-escalate conflict and provide an objective record of serious incidents. We are not asking for continuous recording or for all staff to wear cameras at all times.
We are asking for an independent Welsh Government pilot with appropriate safeguards so that future policy is based on evidence rather than opinion.
At 250 signatures...
All petitions with more than 250 signatures will be discussed by the Petitions Committee
At 10,000 signatures...
Petitions with more than 10,000 signatures will be considered for a debate in the Senedd