THE Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia John Campion is appealing for volunteers to ensure people detained in custody are being treated fairly and properly.
Known as Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) the role is to make unannounced visits to police custody suites to check on people being held there and to make sure police are following all the correct rules and procedures.
The volunteers are recruited from the local community and are independent of the police service and play a vital role in not only monitoring the welfare of people in police custody, but also strengthening public confidence in police practices.
Volunteering as an ICV doesn’t require a lot of time, but flexibility is helpful as custody suites need to be visited at least once a week – sometimes at unsocial hours. Training and support will be given.
Positions are available in north Worcestershire and more information can be found at www.westmercia-pcc.gov.uk/ searching for current vacancies.
