Consultation into smart glasses filming is underway in Newcastle
Newcastle City Council want to know the public's view on the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO)
A consultation is underway in Newcastle to help protect vulnerable people from being exploited and filmed without consent through smart glasses.
It is after videos have been going viral online, showing homeless and vulnerable people being filmed on the streets in Newcastle.
The consultation is part of wider proposals to expand the scope of behaviours included in the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) covering the city.
Cllr Mark Mitchell, deputy leader of Newcastle City Council, said: "Thirty years ago, you would have the schoolyard bullies and then all their friends who would cheer them on. In a way, some of the behaviour is not a lot different to that.
"It’s effectively exploiting people for other people's entertainment. Whether it’s legal or illegal that leaves a bad taste in my mouth and it’s something that we need to address.
"We don't want to ban people taking pictures with their friends and family or even taking pictures or videos of strangers, if the strangers are happy with that. Some people enjoy that experience. But filming in public should not be about harassment, alarm or distress.
"The council is currently looking at running a consultation on this issue and we would encourage people to actually be involved in that consultation because we want to look at actually what's possible, what's proportionate and what's reasonable."
Newcastle Council tell us their focus is on protecting vulnerable people and ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect, not restricting legitimate filming.
The council are encouraging everybody using new technology, including wearable cameras, to think carefully about the impact their actions may have on some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
Newcastle Council are seeking views on proposals to prohibit the following anti-social behaviours:
· Anti-social use of vehicles
· Unnecessary face coverings
· Congregation of large groups
· Aggressive begging
· Organised begging
· Urinating or defecating
· Encampments (following an offer of accommodation or reconnection)
· Harassing recording of individuals
· Ability to walk to a destination without unnecessary obstruction
· Mismanagement of waste
· Use of intoxicating substances
· Car cruising
The consultation looking into the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is running until the 25th September this year.