Lampard Inquiry examines controversial Oxevision patient monitoring system

The Lampard Inquiry is evaluating whether to issue interim recommendations regarding the use of Oxevision, a controversial camera-based monitoring system used in mental health wards. The inquiry, which is investigating the deaths of thousands of mental health patients in Essex, is hearing evidence on whether the technology poses safety risks.

Data presented to the inquiry shows that Oxevision has been adopted by approximately 50 per cent of mental health trusts across England. The system monitors movement, unusual activity, pulse, and respiration rates remotely. However, campaigners from the group Stop Oxevision argue the technology is intrusive, clinically ineffective, and leads to staff substituting human checks with digital monitoring.

Legal representatives for affected families have highlighted cases where staff allegedly muted alerts, leading to fatal delays in care. Additionally, lawyers from Bindmans have requested that the Information Commissioner’s Office investigate the lawfulness of how the system collects, processes, and retains patient data.