Independent Custody Visiting Scheme
Who are we?
Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) are members of the local community who make unannounced visits and observe, comment and report to the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) on the conditions under which people are detained in custody suites. ICVs play a valuable role in maintaining public confidence in this important area of policing and determine whether the regulations governing detention have been complied with, and the interests of detainees properly considered.
Where and when do we work?
Cambridgeshire Constabulary has two full time operational custody suites, one at Parkside in Cambridge, and one at Thorpe Wood in Peterborough. There are also resilience suites in Huntingdon and March. ICVs usually conduct one or two visits a month, most visits last between 1-2 hours, plus travel time.
What do we do?
ICVs carry out frequent checks to oversee the welfare of detainees and ensure they receive their rights and entitlements. They talk to detainees directly (with their consent) will also speak to custody staff and monitor the physical condition of custody facilities. Their findings are reported back to the independent custody visiting scheme manager and the PCC who is responsible for making recommendations for action and improvement.
Could this be you?
Whatever skills you already have you will be able to put them to use in a completely new environment. If you are interested and would like to apply or find our more, please email us today.
The PCC is committed to equal opportunities in managing the Independent Custody Visiting Scheme and welcomes applications from eligible candidates irrespective of their religious belief, political opinion, gender, disability, age, race, marital status, sexuality or whether they have dependants or not.
The Independent Custody Visiting Scheme is a member of the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA), which is a Home Office-funded organisation set up to support custody visiting nationwide.
An opportunity to make a real difference to the welfare of vulnerable people in custody.
All policies and procedures relating to the Cambridgeshire Independent Custody Visitors’ Scheme are available below.
Cambridgeshire’s scheme is run so as to accord with the Home Office publication “Code of Practice on Independent Custody Visiting”.
Cambridgeshire’s Independent Custody Visitors meet either via Microsoft Teams or at Police Headquarters in Huntingdon four times a year.