Call for new custody visitors
A RECRUITMENT campaign is under way to select a new throng of volunteers to be part of Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner’s custody monitoring team.
An online information evening is being held on Tuesday, November 24 at 6pm to promote the volunteering opportunities available with the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. The roles include up to 10 positions with the county’s Independent Custody Visitor Scheme.
The scheme, which is run by Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhindsa, has led the nation in the launch of a new custody oversight system involving the retrospective review of police custody records concerning vulnerable detainees, including those with mental health difficulties or those facing immigration charges.
Mr Dhindsa said: “This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a nationally-respected team.
“Our scheme is at the forefront of innovation and the work we do is being held as a beacon of success and best practice nationally.
“In the current climate of the Black Lives Matter movement to tackle disproportionality, those from BAME communities are actively encouraged to apply.
Custody visitors dedicate their own time to carry out unannounced visits to police custody facilities to ensure the rights, entitlements and wellbeing of detainees are being adhered to. They report their findings to PCCS who have the responsibility of holding their force to account and requesting improvements in standards.
Earlier this year, Derbyshire’s scheme won a Platinum Award in the Independent Custody Visiting Association’s Quality Assurance Awards, representing excellence in the delivery of custody visiting and volunteer management.
To find out more visit www. derbyshire-pcc.gov.uk/taking-part