A training event for Staffordshire’s Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) took place on Saturday (8 March).
The annual refresher-training was attended by 32 ICVs from across the county who learnt a range of new topics including deaf awareness training and how social media is helping to make the work of the ICVs more transparent.
Voluntary ICVs are appointed by the Police and Crime Commissioner to check on the wellbeing of people held in custody by Staffordshire Police. The 40 volunteers make regular, unannounced visits to custody sites throughout the year.
Commissioner Matthew Ellis said: “Volunteers play a huge part in society and local communities. Independent Custody Visitors are central to ensuring an open and transparent police service.”
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Arnold attended the event at police headquarters in Stafford to hand out Service Recognition Awards to five long-serving ICVs.
Ms Arnold said: “Roles of Independent Custody Visitors are crucial – not just to the people in custody, but also in promoting public confidence in the system which is essential to making Staffordshire safer.
“It was a privilege to be involved in Saturday’s event which was a great success. Whilst the training was both helpful and useful, it was a great honour to present Service Recognition Awards to five ICVs who really deserve them after years of selfless dedication.”
ICVs work to a strict code of conduct and are fully trained before they embark on their special duties.
They work in pairs and can check police cells – where they are granted access to detainees – at any time of the day or night to make sure custody rules are being observed.
Anyone interested in joining, or finding out more, should call Jane Milgate on 01785 232245 or visit the PCC website at www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/independent-custody-visitors
For more pictures from the event, visit our gallery.
