Background
Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) are members of the local community who volunteer to visit police stations unannounced to check on the treatment and welfare of people held in police custody.
They provide visible reassurance to the community that those held in custody by the Police are treated fairly and properly even whilst having their liberty denied.
ICVs check on the conditions people experience whilst in custody by conducting weekly random visits with particular focus on the treatment of children, females and those suffering from poor mental health.
During these visits they speak to the detainees and check areas such as shower facilities, food storage and access to health services. Lewisham has just one custody suite located at the police station on Lewisham High Street.
They report their findings and these can lead to recommendations and can require the police to make improvements. Working as part of a local panel, ICVs play a valuable role in maintaining public confidence in this important area of policing by making sure that detainees are treated as they should be.
Many held in police custody have not been charged or convicted of any offence. They will often be released without any further action following proper investigation. They might also be held for their own safety (e.g. suffering from seriously poor mental health) until alternative accommodation can be found.
In London, the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) holds overall responsibility for the scheme’s management and administration. Further information can be found at their website: Independent Custody Visitors | London City Hall.
The London ICV Scheme is a member of the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA). Visit the ICVA website for more information.
Do you think being an ICV is for you?
Lewisham Independent Custody Visitors is recruiting – we are looking for new visitors to join the panel. If you are interested, and we welcome applications from all those who have a connection with Lewisham – whether working, living or studying in the Borough – please make contact with the Safer Neighbourhood Board, or look at the MOPAC web site where there is further detail and an application form (https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/mayors-office-policing-and-crime-mopac/community-safety/independent-custody-visitors)