Lisa Townsend thanked those who dedicate their time to the Independent Custody Visitor (ICV) scheme as she marked national Volunteers’ Week.
In just 12 months, the volunteers, all specially-trained members of the public, dedicated 700 hours to ensuring the rights, wellbeing and dignity of detainees is respected in custody.
ICVs make unannounced visits to Surrey Police’s three custody suites in Guildford, Salford and Staines.
During the visits, they assess conditions and speak with both detainees and custody officers.
Over the past year, volunteers conducted 176 visits, spending 323 hours in custody and directly checking on the welfare of almost 1,000 detainees. They had just under 445 conversations with those in custody.
The scheme, which is managed by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, is open year-round to applicants who want to help improve the service provided by Surrey Police.
The Commissioner said: “Independent Custody Visitors provide essential scrutiny of an area of policing that is hidden from public view.
“By giving their time, they ensure that detainees are being treated respectfully and aren’t going without essentials like food, blankets and feminine hygiene products.
“Volunteers also provide support to custody officers, who are often working in challenging, pressurised conditions with some of Surrey’s most vulnerable people.
“The combined efforts of ICVs and custody staff ensure that every person arrested in the county receives the appropriate, fair treatment and care.
“I’d encourage anyone with an interest to volunteer with the scheme. It’s an immensely rewarding and unique way to give your time to policing.”
ICVs must be over 18, live or work in Surrey, and able to carry out one custody visit per month. They cannot be serving police officers or involved in the criminal justice process.
