Breathing Space Case Study

Option 1

Breathing Space – Enhancing Security through Advanced Analytics

Client: NHS Rotherham Hospital

Supplier: AEL Systems Ltd

Contract Overview:

AEL Systems has been a trusted partner of NHS Rotherham Hospital since 2017, providing a range of fire and security services under a comprehensive maintenance contract. This includes maintaining and upgrading CCTV systems, access control, alarm systems, traffic barriers, and panic alarm systems across the hospital site.

Project Overview:

Location: Breathing Space, a satellite facility of NHS Rotherham Hospital
Objective: To address antisocial behaviour and improve site security through advanced technology integration.
Scope:

• Design and installation of a fully integrated Avigilon CCTV system with human detection analytics.
• Incorporation of audio speakers for real-time communication with individuals on-site.
• Integration with NHS Rotherham’s central monitoring system to enable on-demand guard deployment.

Challenges:

• Environmental Factors: Trees, blind spots, and open access areas posed challenges in achieving accurate detection.
• Antisocial Behaviour: Frequent incidents required a proactive solution to deter trespassing and misuse of the site.
• Legacy Systems: The existing system lacked detection capabilities, necessitating a complete redesign.

Solution:

AEL Systems implemented Avigilon analytical cameras capable of masking environmental elements such as trees and wildlife to minimize false alarms. The technology provided human detection and immediate alerts to the central control room, allowing security personnel to respond efficiently. Audio systems were also installed, enabling guards to deter intruders remotely, reducing the need for static guards.

Benefits:

• Cost Savings: Reduced reliance on static guards through demand-led deployment.
• Enhanced Monitoring: Real-time analytics provided immediate actionable insights.
• Improved Safety: A proactive security approach addressed antisocial behaviour effectively.

Outcome:

While specific data on antisocial behaviour reduction is unavailable, client feedback confirmed a significant reduction but also an improvement in site security.

Option 2:

Strengthening Security at Breathing Space – NHS Rotherham Hospital

AEL Systems Ltd worked in close partnership with NHS Rotherham Hospital to deliver a proactive, intelligence-led security solution at its Breathing Space facility, demonstrating AEL’s expertise in designing and integrating advanced analytics within complex healthcare environments.

The project replaced an outdated, reactive CCTV system with a fully integrated Avigilon analytical platform that provides real-time human detection and continuous situational awareness. By using smart analytics capable of filtering out environmental movement from trees and wildlife, AEL ensured reliable detection while minimising false alarms. All alerts are routed directly to the hospital’s central security control room, enabling rapid, informed decision-making and demand-led guard deployment.

To further strengthen deterrence, AEL incorporated IP audio speakers that allow security teams to communicate directly with individuals on site in real time. This remote intervention capability significantly improves operational efficiency, reducing the need for static guarding while maintaining a visible and effective security presence.

Delivered as a fully integrated solution within the Trust’s existing monitoring infrastructure, the system has transformed security at Breathing Space. It has enhanced coverage across previously vulnerable areas, improved incident response, and created a scalable, future-ready security platform aligned with NHS operational needs.

While formal incident statistics are not available, client feedback confirms a marked reduction in antisocial behaviour alongside a clear improvement in overall site security and confidence in the system.

This project highlights AEL Systems’ ability to combine advanced analytics, intelligent integration, and practical operational design to deliver measurable security, safety, and cost benefits for NHS environments.