Independent Custody Visitor

The ICV scheme is a statutory function of the Police and Crime Commissioners office and focusses on the welfare of detainees held in police custody to ensure their rights and entitlements are being upheld and their welfare and dignity is being maintained..

Hertfordshire has two custody suites situated in Hatfield and Stevenage located at each Police Station..

ICVs are scheduled to visit unannounced in pairs with different visits happening twice a week, during the day or night, seven days a week. We aim to give as much flexibility as possible when arranging these visits to fit around other commitments you may have.

Each volunteer is expected to carry out eight visits per annum (minimum of four visits) to designated police stations and attend twice-yearly panel meetings to discuss key issues raised.

During the visit ICVs complete a number of checks, speaking to both custody staff and detainees in their cells and file a report based on their findings.

ICVs undertake a comprehensive application process, consisting of an application form and interview.

All ICVs are police vetted and fully trained on an on-going basis. there is also the opportunity to attend annual regional and some national conferences.

In order to remain independent, visitors must have no direct involvement in the criminal justice system. Magistrates, serving police officers, special constables and probation officers are not allowed to become visitors and some other professions may also be excluded.