The Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner’s Independent Custody Visiting Scheme has been recognised nationally for the quality of its work.
The scheme has been awarded Platinum status by the Independent Custody Visiting Association.
Sussex is the only Independent Custody Visiting Scheme in the UK to achieve Platinum status three times under the association’s Quality Assurance Framework.
The framework assesses compliance with the Code of Practice governing custody visiting.
Representatives from the Sussex PCC’s scheme were presented with the award at a ceremony in London on July 8.
Under the scheme, trained volunteers from local communities make regular, unannounced visits to police custody suites across Sussex. They check on the welfare and dignity of detainees and report their findings to Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne.
The information is used as part of independent scrutiny to help hold Sussex Police to account and ensure detainees are treated fairly and respectfully.
Welcoming the award, PCC Katy Bourne said: “I am incredibly proud that Sussex is the first and only ICV Scheme in the country to achieve Platinum status for the third time.
“This recognition reflects the unwavering dedication, professionalism and commitment of our volunteer ICVs and Scheme Manager Claire Taylor who supports them.
“It also reflects the strength of our partnership with Sussex Police’s Custody Department and the professionalism of custody staff and partner organisations in maintaining the highest standards of welfare in police custody.
“Recent events have served as a reminder of the importance of robust independent scrutiny, transparency and accountability within policing. ICVs play a vital role in strengthening public trust and confidence in policing by ensuring that people detained are treated with dignity and respect.”
Jackie Cooper, an ICV coordinator for Brighton, said the award recognised volunteers who ensure detainees are informed of their rights, have their welfare monitored and are treated fairly.
Sussex Police also welcomed the recognition, saying external scrutiny is vital in holding forces to account.
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