Independent Custody Observation

As an Independent Custody Visitor, I visit police stations unannounced with another volunteer to check on the treatment of detainees, the conditions in which they are being held and that their rights and entitlements are being observed. We conduct a short interview of the detainees, asking about their treatment whilst in custody. We also inspect other parts of the custody suite including the medical room, kitchen and washing facilities and report our observations. We then prepare a report for each visit, a copy of which is provided to the police and the Scottish Police Authority. During my time with the organisation I gained experience in following protocols and procedures set by the organisation and gained team working
skills.