A brief examination of security and crime prevention in hospitals

Hospitals in the UK have traditionally been designed and built as community facilities, which allow for ease of access and use. The desire to create an environment, which does not cause further discomfort to already ailing people, was and is paramount. In addition has also been the issue of having to allow staff the quickest possible routes around the hospital. This has normally meant numerous unrestricted entry points and freedom to move between buildings within the hospital complex. We give a better insight into hospital crime and assist those involved in preventing/designing out crime. We show that the situation regarding security in hospitals has not moved on greatly. We offer a way of guidance to those with the responsibility for crime prevention/reduction and security within a hospital.