Dorset Residents Encouraged to Join Independent Custody Visiting Scheme

Volunteers are being sought to play a vital role in a scheme which ensures fairness, dignity and respect for people in police custody.

Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) are volunteers drawn from all walks of life whose main role is to provide an independent check on the welfare of people who are detained in police custody. They do this by making random, unannounced visits in pairs to police custody suites throughout the county and reporting their findings.

There are currently 14 ICVs in Dorset who make regular visits to police custody suites. More volunteers are now being sought from across the county, particularly in the west of the county, to help strengthen the scheme and ensure continued independent oversight of detainee welfare. While the current team supports custody facilities Dorset-wide, the majority of volunteers are based in the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch areas.

The ICVs meet on a quarterly basis to discuss their findings at a team meeting chaired by an ICV elected from their peers and attended by senior members of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) and Dorset Police.

ICVs are appointed, trained and overseen by the OPCC and are totally independent of the police force. They carry out an important and highly valued role that helps to strengthen police accountability.

The ICV role is extremely important, and detainees are able to share any concerns they may have related to their rights and entitlements whilst in detention with the ICVs who can then liaise with officers to help resolve any issues.

People in police custody have the right to know why they’re being detained, a solicitor if they want one, to let someone know where they are, as well as free medical help.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, David Sidwick said: "Independent Custody Visitors play a crucial role in ensuring that people detained in police custody are treated with dignity, respect and fairness. Their independent oversight helps build trust and confidence in policing, while providing reassurance that detainees' welfare remains a priority.

"I am incredibly grateful to our current volunteers for the time and commitment they give to this important work. We are now looking for more people, particularly in the west of the county, to join the scheme. If you care about police accountability and making a positive difference in your community, I would encourage you to apply."

There are currently six positions open and volunteers will have their fuel expenses paid for.

For more information or to get involved, email: opcc-governance@dorset.pnn.police.uk 

Watch a video explainer on the role of a ICV here: ICVA - Role Of A Custody Visitor