The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has initiated an investigation into Oxevision, a controversial camera-based monitoring system used in 40% of NHS mental health trusts, following data protection concerns. The system, which remotely monitors patients in their bedrooms using cameras and infrared sensors, has been described by patients as 'creepy' and a form of 'spying'.
Background of the Investigation
Lawyers representing the campaign group Stop Oxevision requested the ICO to examine the lawfulness of how the system collects, processes, and retains patient data, including video images. Rachel Harger, a partner at Bindmans who made the request, stated: 'A patient's bedroom in hospital should, as far as possible, remain a sanctuary for care and treatment, where privacy is respected.' She emphasized that organizations must have a clear lawful basis for collecting and processing patient data, and consent must be properly obtained and freely given.
Patient Death and Family Concerns
The technology is under scrutiny as part of the Lampard inquiry into the deaths of thousands of mental health patients in Essex. Among them is Sophie Alderman, 27, who had a history of serious mental ill health and self-harm. She died by suicide in August 2022 at Rochford Hospital in Essex while under Oxevision surveillance. Her mother, Tammy Smith, testified that the system was intrusive, unsafe, and contributed to her daughter's paranoia. 'I think her paranoia would have been increased 100%. She always felt under a microscope,' Smith said. She added that the system did not keep her daughter safe and that technology cannot replace staff.
Company Response
Laura Cozens, head of patient safety at LIO (formerly Oxehealth), acknowledged that filming a patient 24 hours a day constitutes a significant invasion of privacy but stated that video recordings are only available on request under strict governance rules. An Oxehealth spokesperson defended the system, saying it has flagged 935 ligature incidents and 436 self-harm events on EPUT wards alone, helping to save lives. They rejected the narrative that absolute bedroom privacy equates to safety in acute psychiatric settings.
Criticism from Advocacy Groups
Selen Cavcav from the charity Inquest criticized the use of intrusive technologies, stating they can exacerbate emotional distress and issues like lack of privacy. Nina Ali, a solicitor representing over 150 families, called the use of Oxevision unsafe, intrusive, and potentially unlawful, urging urgent recommendations to protect patients. Stop Oxevision welcomed the ICO investigation, calling it necessary and overdue.
Next Steps
The Lampard inquiry will hear further evidence about Oxevision use in mental health wards at Essex Partnership University NHS Trust (EPUT) next month.
