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Independent Custody Visitors
Chase Division: Staffordshire
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A group of volunteers in Staffordshire carry out a very important role within the community.

Are you interested in what they do?

They are Independent Custody Visitors and within the Chase Division visit the detention cells at Cannock, Rugeley and Wombourne Police Stations. They inspect the custody area and talk to people who are detained, asking about their welfare and ensuring they receive and know their rights.

Independent Custody Visiting owes its origin to Lord Scarman's Report following the Brixton riots during 1981. The Report recommended a system of independent, unannounced inspections of the procedure of detention in Police Stations by ordinary members of the local community.

Custody Visitors have made a significant impact to Custody Suites across the country and conditions of detention.  Visits are always made in pairs and independently offer reassurance to the general community by visiting detainees who may be feeling helpless or vulnerable. All information is treated with the strictest confidence, but may be used in Court.

A full report is passed on to the Police Authority for any action which may need to be taken.  Any problems are also discussed further at regular meetings of the Chase Division.  Actions taken on these reports have improved the welfare of both detainees and custody staff. For instance, in the areas of better provision of food, hygiene and medical facilities,

Hundreds of unannounced visits are made within the Chase area each year; so visitors need to be properly and fully trained and also strive for quality throughout the scheme by acting in a professional manner.

It takes a few hours of your time each month and full training and support is given. If you would like more information on how to apply then contact 01785 232245 or click on the link below: www2.staffordshire.gov.uk/policeauthority/custody3.htm


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