Commissioner praises custody volunteers during volunteer week visit

During the visit, the Commissioner gained valuable insight into the experiences of detainees and the vital work carried out by the volunteers.

The Independent Custody Visiting scheme, overseen by the Commissioner’s Office, enables trained volunteers to make unannounced visits to police custody suites. Their role is to assess the conditions and ensure detainees are being treated fairly, lawfully, and with dignity.

Following the visit, Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said:

“Rebuilding public trust and confidence is a priority in my Police and Crime Plan, and the work of Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) plays a vital role in upholding standards within our custody suites. Their independent oversight ensures transparency and accountability in how detainees are treated.

“Through unannounced visits and direct engagement with both detainees and custody staff, ICVs contribute meaningfully to the ongoing evaluation and improvement of our custody facilities.

“National Volunteers’ Week is an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of volunteers—not just in policing, but across our communities.”

Alongside ICVs, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner run a number of scrutiny panels, all relying on volunteers. More information can be found on the OPCC website.