CCTV
In the early 90's, there was a growing "fear of crime" nation-wide and Ipswich people were no different. They were concerned about using subways; car parks and some would not come in to town at night. Although the fear factor heavily outweighed the reality, crime was clearly high on many people's minds.

During a survey of our car park users during 1993, this fear was confirmed as being the major influence on the quality of life enjoyed by people and in the same survey, an overwhelming 97% said that they were in favour of Ipswich Borough Council introducing CCTV.

In 1994, CCTV became a reality and cameras were monitored from a control room known as the Emergency Services Centre (ESC) - so called for in addition to CCTV, it incorporated the existing Ipswich HEARS Community Alarm Service (for Elderly people and Disabled people); Out-of-Hours Stand-by Service (a 24 hour "hotline" for residents) and other emergency functions. This innovative approach was quickly recognised when we were awarded the prestigious ISCPP Award.

These days, as well as cameras in Ipswich, the ESC also monitors and records cameras for neighbouring towns including Hadleigh, Sudbury, Stowmarket and Park & Ride schemes for Suffolk County Council - a total of over 200 cameras.

Working Together
Although operated totally independently from the Police, close co-operation with the constabulary has existed from day one and the camera locations were chosen after careful consideration by both parties. Cameras principally cover car parks, subways and the main shopping areas, but their usage is widespread, with additional coverage at some schools; sports centres; commercial areas and wherever there is an evaluated need.

Use of the Police "Airwaves" radio system - together with the "Town-Link/Pub Watch Radio System" used by stores detectives and club doormen - makes for effective communications between the various agencies and this also includes close working with others, such as the Street Rangers and Town Pastors.

All staff in the ESC are Security Industry Association accredited whilst IBC enforces a code of practice which ensures that the system is operated both effectively and legally, adhering to all current legislation including the Data Protection Act and Human Rights Act.

An Invaluable and Effective Tool
CCTV was introduced first and foremost to serve as a deterrent and this includes the more recent introduction of "Talking CCTV" - essentially to minimise anti-social behaviour - which allows ESC staff to speak to people and thus nip such incidents in the bud. The role of the ESC and CCTV evidence has also featured in a number of high-profile cases, proving invaluable in the fight against crime. It has been an effective tool in addressing the fear of crime and also playing a part in helping to attract many new businesses to the area, particularly those boosting the night-time economy. Crucially, Ipswich residents have stated that they are now much more confident about using subways and car parks, particularly at night.

Aside from helping Police with hundreds of incidents and court cases each year, it should also be noted that the cameras have helped prevent several suicide attempts and given assistance with other community safety initiatives, including the location of lost children and people that have collapsed in the street.

Whilst undoubtedly successful, the Community Safety team is always working closely with other agencies to ensure that the Emergency Services Centre continues to offer a range of first-class services and there are plans in hand to extend and improve the range of services offered still further.