Cleveland Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) has been recognised nationally for the high quality of its independent custody visiting scheme.
Under the scheme, Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) – trained volunteers from the local community managed by the OPCC – make regular, unannounced visits to police custody suites. They check on the rights, entitlements, wellbeing and dignity of detainees held there.
Their findings are reported to Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC.) The PCC holds the Chief Constable to account for delivering an efficient and effective police service.
The Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA) is the national membership organisation, which supports, leads and represents schemes
ICVA has developed a quality assurance framework. It assesses how well schemes comply with the code of practice governing custody visiting
This is the third year that schemes have been assessed under the framework and have been able to gain quality assurance awards to recognise the value of their work.
Gold Award
Cleveland’s ICV scheme was presented with a gold quality assurance award by ICVA at a ceremony in London.
Cleveland PCC Matt Storey said: “Earlier this year, I took part in a visit to Middlesbrough Custody Suite with Cleveland ICVs. I have first hand experience of our volunteers’ dedication and professionalism.
“Over the course of last year, our ICVs made 32 visits to custody and completed ICVA training online.
“It’s great to now see that hard work and commitment rewarded. This award that recognises Cleveland as one of the best ranked ICV schemes in England and Wales.”
Dame Anne Owers, Chair of ICVA, said: “Once again, these awards show the value and importance of independent custody visiting. This year even more schemes have been awarded the top ‘platinum’ grading.
“This also reflects the crucial work that ICVA does, in providing support and training for volunteers and schemes across the country.”
Significant Commitment
Sherry Ralph, Chief Executive at ICVA said: “The Quality Assurance Framework represents a significant and growing commitment from schemes to ensure that independent custody visiting is regularly reviewed, improvements are made where needed, and excellent practice is shared.
“This year, we have also strengthened our approach. We have introduced a greater focus on volunteer voices, ensuring that the experiences and perspectives of Independent Custody Visitors are embedded within schemes. They are also reflected in assessments, particularly at the higher levels of the framework.
“I congratulate schemes on their accomplishments and thank them for their continued dedication and commitment.”