We want you to go behind bars - visit police custody

We want you to go behind bars - visit police custody

Are you someone who has justice at heart? With an interest in the law and intrigued by what goes on behind the scenes in police custody?

Gloucestershire's Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner is looking for dedicated people to become Independent Custody Visitors (ICV).

These volunteers are made up of members of the community who will drop in to police custody unannounced to observe and make sure detainee's rights are being maintained.

ICVs play a crucial role in safeguarding detained people by making sure they have received their legal entitlements such as; solicitors, access to food and menstrual products, as well as generally checking on their welfare.

Volunteers work in pairs and make unannounced visits to the custody suite every ten days on a rota basis.

Annie White Independent Custody Visitor Scheme Manager, said: "This is a fantastic volunteer role for anyone looking to gain experience in the criminal justice system. You will see a side of policing and the law that very few people get to experience.

"If you have a passion for justice and a caring nature this role would suit you.

"You will make sure that some of society's most vulnerable people are kept safe and are treated with dignity while in police custody."

The recruitment window for the role closes on Monday 20 May.

To find out more about the role of an ICV please visit: Independent Custody Visiting Scheme (gloucestershire-pcc.gov.uk)

To apply or for an informal conversation about the role you can email: engagement.officer@gloucestershire-pcc.gov.uk