‘Platinum’ triumph for PCC’s Independent Custody Visiting Scheme

Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has paid tribute to his dedicated independent custody visitor’s team whose efforts have helped secure a top national award.

The Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland PCC’s Independent Custody Visiting Scheme is one of nine nationally to gain the prestigious ‘Platinum’ award in the Independent Custody Visiting Association’s (ICVA) Quality Assurance Framework, presented at a ceremony in London.

Independent custody visitors (ICVs) are volunteers from the community who undertake unannounced visits in pairs to Leicester Police’s three custody suites at Beaumont Leys, Euston Street and Keyham Lane to check on the welfare, rights and living conditions of people held in police custody to ensure they are being treated fairly and with dignity.

After their visits, they file reports to the PCC’s office to ensure he can address any concerns and make improvements.

The scheme is a critical part of the Commissioner’s work to deliver accountability to the public and maintain the integrity and transparency of the force’s custody provision.

Platinum is the highest rating available for ICV schemes nationally and represents outstanding performance and exceptional management.
Schemes that are assessed as Platinum status have passed a rigorous assessment process, requiring detailed evidence to be submitted against an extensive set of criteria. These are grouped into six core themes: recruitment and training, managing volunteers, communications, holding the force to account, public assurance and detainee welfare.

It is the second time consecutively the PCC’s scheme has achieved the top award. The assessment process grades schemes into four levels: Code Compliant, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.

Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews said:

“I am tremendously proud of this award which recognises the tireless dedication, energy and passion of our ICV Scheme volunteers and scheme manager.

“This award is especially significant as it reflects sustained excellence since our last assessment. The standards required to achieve Platinum status are rightly stringent and it is testament to the professionalism and determination of all involved that the scheme has continued to go beyond what is expected.

“Public oversight is crucial to my work and helps to reassure residents that their local police force can be trusted and that officers are fulfilling their powers and responsibilities with integrity and dignity. This is essential for strong and cooperative communities. I congratulate the team on their continued achievements.”

Ends

Picture shows (L-R): Dame Anne Owers (ICVA Chair), Dharmista Dave (OPCC Assurance Officer) and Sherry Ralph (ICVA CEO)