Independent Visiting Scheme

Are you looking to volunteer for something different? Then why not find out more about being an Independent Custody Visitor?

What is an Independent Custody Visitor?

Independent Custody visitors are members of the local community whose task it is to visit police stations unannounced to check on the welfare of people who are in police custody. Their task is to observe, comment and report on these matters.
 
They assist the Police by helping to ensure that they are providing the service that is expected of them. 

They can also help in the management of police performance by pointing out problems that may have occurred which could have implications on policy, training, communications or just the daily running of the custody section of a Police Station.

Independent custody visitors come from a variety of backgrounds.  A Social Worker, an Aircrew Sergeant for the Royal Air Force, a part-time Lecturer, a retired Deputy Head Teacher, a former Bank Manager, a self employed writer and a nurse are among current custody visitors working in Gloucestershire.

There are currently 31 Custody Visitors – 17 men and 14 women, working in Gloucestershire.

During 2006, 82 visits were made, and of the 469 people in custody during these visits, 243 people chose to speak to a Custody Visitor, (52 %). 

How to become a Custody Visitor

In the last 12 months, 6 custody visitors retired or resigned and Authority members would like to thank all of them for their hard work and commitment.  To fill the vacancies a successful recruitment campaign was conducted, with 27 applications received.  This led to the appointment of eleven new custody visitors with effect from 1 April 2007. 

Visit the Independent Custody Visitors Association for more detailed information about the role.