Awards for exemplary volunteering

VOLUNTEERS who check on the welfare of detainees in police custody were last night presented with long-service awards by Cambridgeshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Sir Graham Bright.

Between them the 24 Independent Custody Visitors have clocked up over 150 years’ service. Sir Graham handed out 15 long-service awards to the members of the scheme who have served for three years or more.

Commenting on the dedication of the team of volunteers, Sir Graham said: “I want to celebrate and acknowledge the long-service by many Independent Custody Visitor members and take time to thank them for the commitment they have given to volunteering for this vital role. They give up their spare time, often in unsocial hours of the day, to inspect and report on the treatment of detainees held in custody by Cambridgeshire Constabulary.”

The recipient for an award with the longest service was Geoffrey Rogers who has been an Independent Custody Visitor for 25 years. Upon receiving his award, Geoffrey Rogers said: “I’m really honoured and surprised to receive this thoughtful award. The scheme means a lot to me and I enjoy supporting the work that the ICV scheme carries out in Cambridgeshire.”

Whilst Sir Graham was keen to recognise long-service he believes that any time given to volunteering is admirable and demonstrates a keen interest in the general welfare and safety of the public.

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner is responsible for co-ordinating and overseeing Cambridgeshire’s Independent Custody Scheme. The purpose of the scheme is to scrutinise police practice and procedures in custody facilities across the county and therefore offers a mechanism of accountability and reassurance to the public. The volunteers report back to Sir Graham, enabling him to identify any issues or trends that emerge from visits and direct them at the Constabulary.

Ends

Notes to editors

Photo attached:

From left to right

Dan Vajzovic              Chief Superintendent (Cambridgeshire Constabulary)

Geoffrey Rogers         Independent Custody Visitor

Sir Graham Bright     Cambridgeshire Police and Crime Commissioner

Media enquiries to:

Charles Kitchin – Director of Public Engagement & Communications

Director of Public Engagement & Communications

Tel DD: 01954 713906

Mobile: 07809 332291

About The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner

Sir Graham Bright is the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cambridgeshire.

Police and Crime Commissioners have responsibility for delivering an efficient and effective police service in their area. Commissioners set police and crime objectives, the police budget and issue crime and disorder reduction grants through the Police and Crime Plan. Commissioners also hold the police to account, making them answerable to the public.

Further details can be found on the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner website.