Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner’s (PCC) Independent Custody Visiting (ICV) Scheme has been awarded Platinum status for the third time by the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA).
This is the highest honour under the ICVA’s Quality Assurance Framework.
Katy Bourne, Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner, 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.”
The ICV scheme relies on trained volunteers who make regular, unannounced visits to police custody suites across Sussex.
Chief Inspector Andy Dunkling of Sussex Police said: “We are absolutely thrilled that the Sussex ICV Scheme has secured its third Platinum status.
“The relentless hard work and dedication of the ICVs, the personal time they give up and the care and compassion they put into the role, is rightly deserving of such an accolade.”