Behind the scenes with an Independent Custody Visitor
14 May 2019
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Volunteering as an Independent Custody Visitor (ICV) in Essex means you can really make a difference to the criminal justice process.
Our team of 12 ICVs have helped to change legislation in respect of the rights and entitlements as well as the welfare and dignity of detainees. They monitor the standards of custody suites and safeguard the welfare of people detained within them. However, they do not become involved in the on-going investigation, which has resulted in the detention of someone.
Since the Police Reform Act 2002, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioners have had a statutory duty to maintain an Independent Custody Visiting Scheme for their area.
Our volunteers have helped to improve:
- The dignity of women in custody by ensuring they are offered and have access to female hygiene packs if required. There was no standard practice and our ICVs raised the issue at a national level which was then taken on board by the Home Office
- The taste and nutritional value of the food on offer to detainees by taking part in taste tests with meal providers
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