A day in the life of an independent custody visitor volunteer

Carly – a volunteer with our office, shares what it’s like to be an independent custody visitor:

“Something that I learned very quickly after becoming an Independent Custody Visitor (ICV) is that no two custody visits are ever the same. I’ve been an ICV for about two years now, and I think I learn something new or experience something different every time I visit custody.

“As an ICV you make a visit to your designated custody unit about once a month. You give your availability to your coordinator each quarter and you’re then buddied up with another ICV and given a week during which you are to arrange a visit, at a time that’s suitable for you both. This flexibility has been a great benefit of the role for me. As a busy mum and business owner, being able to plan in my visits in such a flexible way really helps.

“When I first visited custody, I was surprised by how warmly we were welcomed. The vast majority of police staff and officers appreciate the work we do and are happy to show us around and answer any questions. We usually try and see all detainees during a visit, but some may not want to speak to us or may be away from their cell at interview, or receiving medical care.

“The crux of our role is to check the detainees are being treated fairly and being well looked after. We check they have been given their rights, have had food and drink and have received any medical attention they require. Some visits are more challenging than others. There may be a detainee whose first language isn’t English, and we need to find a way to communicate with them or there may be a young person who has never been in custody before and we need to find a way to make them feel safe and comfortable speaking to us.

“We will always flag up any issues we observe and if we can’t resolve them then and there, they will be picked up by a member of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office. We have regular meetings as a group to explore any themes or issues we have experienced and to receive training. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as an ICV and have learnt so much about policing and the criminal justice system. I would highly recommend the role to anyone who feels like they might like to learn more about what happens in custody and can be a critical friend, helping to inform the way people are treated in custody.”

We’re grateful to Carly for sharing her experiences. We’re currently recruiting new volunteers to join us as Independent Custody Visitors, as well as members of the Independent Scrutiny of Police Complaints Panel (ISOPCP), and the Independent Scrutiny of Police Powers Panel (ISOPPP).

For more information or to apply, visit: OPCC Volunteer recruitment