Hampshire Police Authority are on the lookout for volunteers to visit people held in custody on the Isle of Wight, as well as across Hampshire.
It’s part of the scheme which aims to ensure that those being held in police custody are treated well.
What’s it all about?
Custody Visitors are independent, trained volunteers who check on the welfare of people being detained in police custody suites.
65 volunteers current work for the the Independent Custody Visiting (ICV) which has been running in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight for an impressive 20 years.
Volunteers to the scheme say they find the work extremely rewarding, by giving something back to the community in a positive way.
John Bennett who has been a custody visitor for 15 years said “We act as the public’s ‘eyes’, giving people reassurance that we regularly check behind the closed doors of the custody suites in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Since the start of the scheme in 1986 we have found nothing seriously amiss and are constantly impressed by the work that officers do on behalf of our communities.”
Jean Snowsill, administrator of the scheme for Hampshire Police Authority said: “The ICV scheme aims to reassure the public that people detained by the police are treated fairly, professionally and with dignity. At a time when they may be feeling vulnerable or confused, it’s very important to consider their wellbeing.
“You don’t need any special skills to become a volunteer as we provide full training and support. The qualities we look for include being a good listener, having a non-judgemental attitude and a general interest in the community.
“Volunteers are only required to make eight visits a year, along with an initial one day training event. The length of each visit depends on how many people are in custody at the time, and the number who wish to see the visitors.
“However, this is an extremely rewarding role for the right people, and we would encourage anyone who wants more information to visit our website or give us a call.”
For more information about becoming a volunteer, contact Hampshire Police Authority on 01962 871595 or visit their Website
Image: J D Mack under CC BY-ND 2.0
