Independent custody visitors (ICVs) play a vital role in making sure detainees are treated fairly, safely and with dignity.
Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs):
- Carry out random and unannounced visits to police stations to check on the welfare of people in custody; and
- Ensure the rights, entitlements and wellbeing of detainees are being met.
ICVs work in pairs and usually undertake visits on a weekly basis. ICVs must treat details of what they see and hear as confidential.
As a result of their visit, ICVs are required to complete a report and submit it to the OPCC.
The report provides an insight into how custody is running. The OPCC analyses information and highlights areas for action. Information is then shared with the Force, the PCC and the Home Office.
The ICVs’ public oversight helps to prevent harm. It also provides the public with re-assurance that custody is safe. In addition, the ICVs’ work helps the UK meet its human rights obligations.
Police forces welcome the role of ICVs to give them an independent insight into their custody suites, often stating that the visitors’ reports are helpful in driving improvements.
Watch this video to find out more about the role of an ICV:
Gold Award
Cleveland has one of the most prestigious Independent Custody Visitor Schemes in England and Wales.
It was awarded the gold quality assurance standard by the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA) in July 2026.
To Apply
The OPCC is currently recruiting ICV volunteers.
All applications to join the ICV scheme are considered on their own merits. The OPCC is looking for applications from all sectors of the community.
Staff assess individual circumstances against the needs of the post and suitability of the applicant.
To become an ICV, you must:
- Be over 18.
- Not be a justice of the peace, serving police officer or civilian police employee. You also cannot be an appropriate adult, an OPCC member of staff or special constable.
- Be willing to have your applications appraised if there appears to be a conflict of interest between your voluntary and working role. This is relevant to people working in areas of the criminal justice system, such as solicitors and members of the probation service.
- Agree to always work as a volunteer and only receive out of pocket expenses incurred in the course of your role.
- Have a good understanding of English language. This is because all ICVA guidelines, reporting and recording procedures are available in either English or Welsh.
To apply for the role, please submit an application form.
To find out more about the role, please take a look at the person and role specification
Reprisals policy
The OPCC must make sure detainees are able to speak to independent custody visitors openly and without fear of reprisal.
This is part of its responsibility under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT)
OPCAT is an international human rights treaty, which aims to help protect people deprived of their liberty.
Our Reprisals Policy is available to the public.
Key Documents
Cleveland Independent Custody Visitor Scheme’s Annual Report
Independent Custody Visitor Scheme Performance for 2025-26
Contact
For further information or any enquiries please contact Elise Pout, Head of Standards, Scrutiny and Accountability:
Tel: 01642 301263
Email: [email protected]