Privacy & CCTV Policy

Scope
PMCH has installed an image-only CCTV system to protect its building. Cameras will be monitored by those people listed in 3.2, who have been trained in the use of the system.

This Policy has been prepared for the guidance of operators of the CCTV system and for the information of all users of PMCH. Its purpose is to ensure that the CCTV system is used to create a safer environment for Church members and all other users of Central Hall, and to ensure that its operation is consistent with the obligations on PMCH imposed by the Data Protection Act 2018 and good practice guidance issued by the Information Commissioner.

All those who are involved in the operation of the CCTV system will be required to have read and understood this Policy.

1. Objectives
   CCTV has been installed for the following purposes:

   • To assist in the prevention and detection of crime

   • To facilitate the identification, apprehension and prosecution of offenders in relation to crime and public order

   • To help ensure safety of all users of the buildings and visitors

   
   The system will be operated in a manner that is consistent with respect for individual’s privacy.
   

2. System

   Coverage
   The CCTV system has four cameras. Three are outside and are focused on the two fire exits in Smithhills Street. The other is on the fire exit in the lane opening out onto Gauze Street. The internal camera is focused on the entrance foyer.
   

   Operation
   The CCTV system operates throughout the year for 24 hours a day.
   

   Presence of CCTV
   Church members, all users of the buildings, visitors and the public are made aware of the presence of the CCTV system by appropriate signage.
   

   Privacy
   To respect privacy the cameras are fixed and focus only on the areas described in section 2.1 above. All users of the building are made aware of areas covered by the CCTV system.
   

   Recorder, storage and physical access
   Images captured on camera are recorded on a digital hard drive. Only those approved by PMCH listed in 3.2 or Staff working for Knight Security will be allowed access to the local recorder, which is kept in a secure place.
   

   Data Protection Act
   For the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1988, the Data Controller is The Methodist Church and it is legally responsible for the management and maintenance of the CCTV system.
   

3. Recording, handling and retention
   

   1. Monitoring Images
      Images captured by the system will be monitored by those approved by PMCH, with access to other individuals only given where essential for one of the purposes listed in section 2 of this policy.
      

   2. Authorised access
      Except in emergencies, only those people on the list below are authorised to have access to the CCTV system or its recordings:

      • PMCH Minister

      • PMCH Property Steward

      • PMCH Senior Steward

      • Other individuals to access their personal data as specified in section 4.11
        

   3. Training
      PMCH will ensure that all authorised users are trained in all relevant aspects of the CCTV system.
      

   4. Digital Recording
      All video captured by the CCTV system is recorded onto the hard drive and is located in a secure place.
      

   5. Identifying and recording discs and images
      Discs, still photographs and printed images will be uniquely identified. The date and time of recording, purpose of viewing, copies taken… will be recorded for evidence. For images recorded digitally, all identifying retrieval dates and times will be recorded.
      

   6. Retention
      Unless required for evidential purposes or the investigation of crime or otherwise required by law, recorded images will be retained for no longer than one week.
      

   7. Erasure and disposal
      At the end of their useful life all images on discs will be erased and securely disposed of. All still photographs and hard copy prints will also be disposed of securely.
      

   8. Requests to view or copy images
      Requests to view or copy CCTV images will be considered on a case-by-case basis by PMCH Church Council or a designated sub-group. If access is denied the reasons will be reported to the next Church Council meeting and recorded in the Minutes. A fee of £10 will be charged for processing.
      

   9. Copies of recorded images
      Copies of tapes or digital images will only be made when required by law or for assistance in diagnosing faults in the system.
      

   10. Requests from the police or law enforcement agencies
       Requests from the Police or other law enforcement agencies may arise for a number of purposes, including:

       • For the prevention of crime

       • For the apprehension or prosecution of offenders

       • For the purpose of, or in connection with, any legalproceedings (including prospective legal proceedings)

       • What is otherwise necessary for the purpose of establishing, exercising or defending legal rights
         

       All such requests should be directed to PMCH via the Minister or Designated Property Steward.
       Law enforcement agencies should provide appropriately authorised data disclosure forms which establish their identity and the purposes for which they require the disclosure.
       

4. Rights of individuals
   PMCH is obliged to supply individuals (Data Subjects) with their personal data under the Data Protection Act 1988. Individuals wishing to access their personal information contained within CCTV images should contact PMCH via the Minister or designated Property Steward who, in turn, will decide on the appropriate action to take.
   

5. Review
   This policy will be reviewed annually.