Members of the Community Challenge the Criminal Justice System and see Results
'Independent Custody Visiting' is a well established system in which volunteers attend police stations to check on the treatment of detainees and to ensure rights are being observed.
Devon and Cornwall Police Authority manage 58 Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) and they visit the seven main custody units up to four times a month – at any time of the day or night. Visits are unannounced and the report of the visit goes directly to the Police Authority offices in order that action can be taken.
The importance of the Independent Custody Visitors cannot be understated as Mike Bull, Chair of Devon and Cornwall Police Authority remarks.
"It is important people being held there [in custody] – against their will in many cases – are treated properly and with respect and as any of us others would expect to be treated."
In 2009 ICVs across Devon and Cornwall completed 317 visits which saw 763 detainees checked upon. Largely there were no complaints. Some concerns included: long waiting times for external support (such as medical staff, interpreters) to arrive; and, cells that were out of service due to building works. Often detainees compliment the standards and service of the custody staff.
Where similar concerns are raised across the custody units the ICVs can push for change. In April 2009 five Alternative Places of Safety were opened. Prior to this ICVs had often commented on welfare issues of holding someone awaiting a Mental Health Act assessment in a police cell. Since the opening there have been minimal reports of concern in relation to this matter.
The Chief Executive of Devon and Cornwall Police Authority, Sue Howl, commends the commitment and value of volunteers working with the criminal justice system.
“Volunteers are instrumental in supporting the police across a range of activities, and thereby, contribute to the shaping of policy and practice across the Force area.”
For more information visit the Police Authority website (Independent Custody Visiting) or become a Facebook Fan of 'DCPA ICV'. The ICV Annual Report of 2009 is now available please follow the link.