GWENT INDEPENDENT CUSTODY VISITING SCHEME WELCOMES NEW RECRUITS

Gwent Police Authority is delighted to welcome 4 new Independent Custody Visitors to its Independent Custody Visiting Scheme.

The 4 new visitors will join our 9 existing visitors who have all successfully completed training to ensure that they have the in depth knowledge of the latest best practices required to fulfil their role - ranging from interpersonal communication skills to the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE).

Our Independent custody visitors check on the standards in which people are held in custody in Gwent, enhancing the accountability and transparency of Gwent Police among the communities it serves.

Visitors play a vital role in raising standards in custody and the fair treatment of detainees. Our volunteers come from all walks of life and sections of the community representing a diverse cross section of society.

Existing Independent Custody Visitors have recently been awarded for their long periods of service ranging between 7 and 22 years.

Councillor John Williams, Police Authority lead member for the Independent Custody Visiting Scheme commented:

"I am extremely pleased that 4 new visitors have joined our scheme and am looking forward to everyone involved in the scheme working together to ensure that people in custody are receiving the right standard of care.

"Gwent Police is open to independent outside scrutiny and the public should be confident that the Force is providing a high standard of custody arrangements."