St. Vincent’s University Hospital Launches Hospital Watch Initiative
20th November 2023
St. Vincent’s University Hospital (SVUH) is delighted to announce the official launch of Hospital Watch, a pioneering initiative aimed at preventing crime within the hospital setting. The programme operates in partnership with An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive (HSE), and all stakeholders, including dedicated staff, patients, and visitors.
Similar to the successful Neighbourhood Watch schemes implemented in other regions, Hospital Watch is a proactive crime prevention programme that addresses the unique safety challenges within a hospital environment.
Cahal Flynn, Director of Operations at SVUH, said, “At St. Vincent’s University Hospital, our commitment to the safety and well-being of our community is unwavering. Our unwavering commitment to the Hospital Watch programme is evident in the active involvement of the Hospital Watch Group, which played a pivotal role in launching this initiative with overwhelming support received throughout the entire hospital. Its launch marks a significant step in fostering a secure environment for our staff, patients, and visitors.”
Hospital Watch brings together law enforcement, healthcare management, and the broader community in a collaborative effort to ensure the safety of everyone within the hospital walls. Operating as a joint initiative involving An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive (HSE), and dedicated hospital staff, it embodies principles of partnership, problem-solving, and engagement, actively working towards a safe and secure environment for all.
Stephen Donnelly, Head of Security at SVUH emphasised, “As we transition into the Winter season and the extended darkness of the evenings, our commitment to creating a safe environment becomes even more crucial. Our goal is to create an environment where safety is paramount. Hospital Watch is a testament to our dedication to crime prevention and the protection of all those under our care.”
Community Policing Officer, Garda Sarah Bracken of Donnybrook Garda Station, added, “Hospital Watch is more than a programme; it’s a commitment to the well-being of everyone within the hospital. Together, with the support of the community and law enforcement, we are actively working towards a safer healthcare environment.”
For further information, please contact Jennie Cotter, Corporate Communications Manager | jcotter@svhg.ie
Pictured at today’s Hospital Watch launch at St. Vincent’s University Hospital with key figures dedicated to creating a secure environment: Stephen Donnelly, Head of Security; Superintendent Timothy Burke, Donnybrook Garda Station; John Delea, Senior Security Officer; Garda Sarah Bracken, Community Policing Officer, and Cahal Flynn, Director of Operations at SVUH.
Stephen Donnelly, Head of Security at SVUH pictured at today’s launch of Hospital Watch
Garda Sarah Bracken details the intricacies of Hospital Watch to senior management at the SVUH Hospital Watch Launch.
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