Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs)

Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) are volunteers who visit police custody suites to check on the welfare, rights, and conditions of detained people. They operate independently of the police and provide an impartial role ensuring detainees are treated fairly and in accordance with the law. Their work promotes transparency and public confidence in policing by reporting findings to local oversight bodies.

About West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner

Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) are volunteers who visit police custody suites to check on the welfare, rights, and conditions of people detained. They operate independently of the police and provide an impartial safeguard, ensuring detainees are treated fairly and in accordance with the law. Their work promotes transparency and public confidence in policing by reporting findings to local oversight bodies.

What skills do I need?

Be 18 years of age or over and pass the Non Police Personal Vetting (NPPV Level 2) process.

Live or work in the West Mercia Police area of Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Shropshire.

Have the ability to travel to conduct visits, attend meetings and meet training requirements.

Be flexible, reliable and have sufficient time to undertake the role of custody visitor, including some unsociable hours.

Be an effective communicator both verbally and in writing, with people from a variety of backgrounds.

Hold diversity and equalities in high regard, showing respect for the opinions, circumstances and feelings of colleagues and members of the public regardless of background, status, ethnicity, gender, sexuality or religion.

Able to demonstrate an independent and impartial view in relation to all parties involved in the custody visiting process.

Be able to work as part of a team to fulfil the PCC’s ICV Scheme responsibilities.

Able to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to policies and procedures, with a commitment to continued development.

Able to use simple IT systems, such as e-mail and completing online forms.

Desirable

Has an interest in Human Rights and the welfare of those involved in the Criminal Justice System.

Has some knowledge of custody visiting. 

When do I need to be available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Details

The timings of custody visits vary and can be planned around availability

Where does this role take place?