Could you be an Independent Custody Visitor!

Cumbria Police Authority is looking for Volunteers to join its Independent Custody Visiting Scheme.

Cumbria Police Authority is looking to recruit independent members of the community to join the Scheme on the North, West and Kendal panels. Independent Custody Visitors, visit Custody Suites unannounced, always working in pairs, to check on the welfare of the people in police custody.  This scheme aims to improve public confidence in the police and help the Police Authority to gain a clear insight, into the running of custody facilities within the county.

Independent Custody Visitors must be impartial at all times.  They don’t take sides, but look, listen and report on what they find.  Independent Custody Visitors are volunteers who receive no payment, though their expenses will be met.

Anyone who is at least 18 years of age, and lives or works in Cumbria may apply.  However, anyone in the police service, such as police officers, special constables, police staff and members of the Police Authority are ineligible.

Rob Huck, the Police Authority’s Lead Member for custody said “I would encourage anyone with an interest in policing or welfare matters to apply.  This role provides a unique insight into the working of the police service.”

The closing date for the applications is 12 noon on Monday 17 October 2011.  Anyone requiring further information should contact:

Emily Pratt

Cumbria Police Authority

Carleton Hall

Penrith

CA10 2AU

Telephone 01768 217733

E-mail        policeauthority@cumbria.police.uk  

Website     www.cumbriapoliceauhtority.org.uk