Independent Custody Visiting

Two independent custody visitors in a police cell talked to a detained person, while a custody officer stands outside the open door

Welcome to the Independent Custody Visiting Scheme for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. You’ll be able to learn more about what custody visitors are, what they do, and how to join the scheme.

What is a custody visitor?

Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) are members of the local community who visit police stations unannounced to check on the treatment of detainees, the conditions in which they are being held and that their rights and entitlements are being observed.

Can I be a custody visitor?

There are currently 41 ICVs across Hampshire and Isle of Wight. Members of the community wishing to become an ICV need to complete an application form which is returned to the Scheme Administrator. A shortlisting and interview process is undertaken and successful applicants need to attend a one day training session. Ongoing training is provided.

What have they learnt?

What have the custody visitors told us from their visits? Annual reports for the Custody Visiting scheme are produced for the Commissioner, the reports can be viewed and downloaded in this section.

What about the rest of the UK?

The Independent Custody Visitors Association (ICVA) is a Home Office, Policing Authority and Police and Crime Commissioner funded membership organisation set up to lead, support and represent PCC and Policing Authority led schemes. Local volunteers make unannounced visits to police custody to check on the rights, entitlements, wellbeing and dignity of detainees held in police custody, reporting to PCCs and Policing Authorities who hold Chief Constables to account.