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The Independent Custody Visiting (ICV) Scheme monitors conditions in police custody to provide transparency and increase public confidence in police services while offering protection and confidentiality to detainees and the police.
An ICV visits police stations to inspect the upholding of detainee rights, wellbeing and health as well as auditing the condition of custody suites.
Hertfordshire has two custody suites situated in Hatfield and Stevenage.
ICVs are scheduled to visit unannounced in pairs twice a week, during the day or night, seven days a week.
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 and file a report based on their findings.
ICVs undertake a comprehensive application process, consisting of an application form and interview.
All ICVs are vetted and fully trained on an on-going basis. there is also the opportunity to attend annual regional and some national conferences.
The Commissioner publishes an annual report about the Independent Custody Visiting Scheme.
The report contains information about the organisation of the scheme as well as key findings from visits.