Bedfordshire wins top national award for custody visiting scheme
An independent scheme that checks to see how people in custody are being treated in Bedfordshire has been given the highest national award for its work.
The Bedfordshire Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner picked up the award for its Independent Custody Visiting (ICV) scheme at a ceremony in London earlier this month.
The scheme was awarded platinum status by the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA) for how it independently looks at standards and treatment in Bedfordshire's police custody suites.
The custody visitors are trained volunteers, who come from the community to make unannounced visits to police custody suites. They check that people being held in custody are being treated fairly, safely and with dignity, and make sure that their rights and welfare are being protected.
They report their findings independently to the Police and Crime Commissioner, and help to give public oversight and accountability.
The visitors were also nominated for an award by a custody inspector for their work at the internal Bedfordshire Police Force Awards “in recognition of their exceptional contribution, professionalism and commitment to safeguarding the welfare of detainees within Bedfordshire Police custody”.
John Tizard, Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire shared his admiration for the scheme and the volunteers.
He said: "Independent scrutiny is essential to maintaining confidence in our policing services.
"This platinum award recognises the dedication of our Independent Custody Visitors and the high standards they help uphold.
"Their work provides reassurance that detainees' rights, welfare and dignity are being protected, and I am grateful for their continued commitment to serving our communities."
Dame Anne Owers, chair of ICVA, said: "Once again, these awards show the value and importance of independent custody visiting, with even more schemes being awarded the top 'platinum' grading. This also reflects the crucial work that ICVA does, in providing support and training for volunteers and schemes across the country.”
While Sherry Ralph, chief executive at ICVA added: “This year, we have also strengthened our approach by introducing a greater focus on volunteer voices, ensuring that the experiences and perspectives of Independent Custody Visitors are embedded within schemes and reflected in assessments, particularly at the higher levels of the framework.
"I congratulate schemes on their accomplishments and thank them for their continued dedication and commitment."