Volunteer voice: supporting fairness in police custody

As part of National Volunteers week, we are proud to share the experience of one of our Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs). A vital role that helps ensure fairness, dignity and transparency within police custody.

ICVs are volunteers who visit Cheshire police custody suites (Runcorn, Middlewich and Blacon) unannounced, checking on the welfare of people held in custody. They make sure detainees are treated properly, have access to their rights, and are cared for appropriately. They are independent of the police, providing reassurance to both the public and Dan Price, Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) that standards are being upheld.

Ian decided to volunteer his time and step into this role after retiring. Like many people, retirement brought a desire to stay active and connected. Read his thoughts on the role below.

When I retired, I wanted to remain mentally active and be involved in something different from my career. I’ve always having that human interaction. Volunteering as an ICV has given me a way to continue that.

This role stood out because it is both meaningful and challenging. It involves speaking with people who may be going through one of the toughest moments of their lives. Despite what brought them into custody, they still deserve to be treated with dignity and compassion.

Many detainees have complex lives and personal difficulties. This role requires communication skills, tact and resilience. I felt I could use my life and professional experience to support people in that situation. Speaking to detainees gives me a real sense of satisfaction. Even a short conversation can help someone deal with what may be the most traumatic experience of their life.

The good thing about this role is that you’re never alone. You work as a team, with the other volunteers. You all have a shared sense of purpose. We visit the custody suites in pairs, which means you always have support. Each volunteer brings different life experience and that makes each visit interesting and rewarding.

There’s a preconception about volunteering that it can take up lots of your time. But as an ICV, the time commitment is manageable, with visits typically lasting around an hour. Visits are arranged around my availability which helps me balance my volunteer / life balance.

I am proud to volunteer as an ICV. The fact that my observations can hep provide assurance to both the PCC and the public and knowing how I’m helping to maintain standards is very rewarding.

I would encourage anyone to volunteer as an ICV, whether you work or not. The role brings variety, purpose and a chance to use your skills in a meaningful way. I’m looking forward to my next visit.