The Independent Custody Visiting Scheme

The Independent Custody Visiting (ICV) Scheme is where volunteers visit police stations to check on the welfare of people detained in custody by the police to see the conditions in which they are being held and to ensure their rights are being observed.

The Scheme covers the custody units in Bridgwater, Keynsham and Patchway. Each area has an Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) Panel led by an ICV Coordinator who provides support to the ICV volunteers in their team.

Our ICV Handbook (PDF) contains more information about the Independent Custody Visiting Scheme and the procedures involved in the custody visiting process.

Aims of the Scheme

The ICV Scheme aims to give confidence to local people regarding the custody facilities, welfare, rights and entitlements of detainees. This offers protection to both detainees and the police and allows local people an insight into conditions in custody.

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is legally responsible for the delivery of the Independent Custody Visiting Scheme.

The ICV panel produce annual reports providing a summary of the results found in custody. View the ICV Annual Reports.

For further information about the aims and objectives, read the role profile (PDF).

What does volunteering involve?

The role is a three year commitment for the first term.

Custody visits will take place roughly once a month, in pairs, and a Rota which covers a three month period will be sent to you.

Custody visits are within a four day time period they can be in the daytime or evening to suit your personal schedule. 

There will be panel meetings every three months where ICVs can talk about any custody visiting matters.

Join the Panel

If you are interested in volunteering, email opccvolunteering@avonandsomerset.police.uk