MEDICS are planning to extend CCTV cameras in a casualty department in a bid to curb the growing tide of violence against front-line hospital staff.

The scheme, which could include patients' cubicles being monitored, is among a series of proposed improvements to Blackburn Royal Infirmary's accident and emergency unit.

The hospital is in the running for up to £100,000 from the Government's Modernisation Fund which will fund the measures.

The Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley NHS Trust is keen to tighten security and they believe that extra CCTV cameras would provide a boost to doctors and nursing staff who have been facing an increasing barrage of violence from patients.

Last month the hospital even called for police reinforcements to clampdown on the violence after it was revealed that staff were coming under the increasing threat of violence.

The extra cash for casualty would also fund an improved children's area and replacement X-ray machinery.

Ewen Dyda, site manager at the infirmary, said: "We introduced CCTV last year and we have a colour monitor in the accident and emergency reception area.

"There are cameras in some of the corridors and at the main entrance as people walk in.

"We want to extend CCTV to all areas and most of the cubicles where patients are treated."

The casualty unit was recently awarded £100,000 from the Government to develop its telemedicine system so scenes from accidents could be beamed direct to casualty medics.

John Thomas, trust chief executive, said: "We are hopeful that our bid will be successful. The casualty unit had a major upgrade last year and these further improvements would be welcome."

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