Neonatal cot cameras under review by Jersey and Guernsey health authorities

Health authorities in Jersey and Guernsey are considering whether video monitoring should be introduced for babies receiving care in neonatal cots and incubators.

The proposal follows recommendations from the Thirlwall Inquiry, which examined the murders of seven babies by nurse Lucy Letby at the Countess of Chester Hospital in England.

Inquiry chair Lady Justice Thirlwall recommended a range of measures to strengthen safety in neonatal units, including the installation of CCTV cameras covering all cots and incubators.

The inquiry found that, had such monitoring been available, attacks on four babies would probably have been detected. Lady Justice Thirlwall also highlighted the potential benefit for families, saying cameras could allow parents to check on their babies remotely when they are unable to be at the hospital.

In England, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has ordered urgent work on plans to introduce cameras in neonatal units.

Guernsey's Neonatal Unit said it was aware of the recommendation and would review the inquiry's findings to identify any relevant lessons for local services and compare them with its existing arrangements.

Health and Care Jersey said it was also reviewing the inquiry in full.

A spokesperson said: "Patient safety is our highest priority, and we will assess any recommendations against existing safeguarding arrangements, clinical practice, data protection requirements and the needs of babies and their families."

The department confirmed that no decision had yet been made on whether cot cameras would be introduced in Jersey.

It added that developments in England would be monitored as the authorities consider whether the recommendation could be applied locally.