Leicestershire custody visiting scheme earns prestigious 'Platinum' award
PCC commends exceptional volunteer efforts behind national recognition
The Independent Custody Visiting Scheme under Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews for Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland has achieved the revered 'Platinum' award in the Independent Custody Visiting Association’s (ICVA) Quality Assurance Framework.
Presented in London, the accolade marks the scheme as one of only nine nationally to attain this highest level of recognition, emphasizing excellence and exceptional management.
Independent custody visitors (ICVs) volunteer from the community to carry out unannounced visits to Leicester Police’s custody suites at Beaumont Leys, Euston Street, and Keyham Lane, ensuring the welfare and rights of detainees are upheld with fairness and dignity.
Post-visit reports submitted by ICVs allow Commissioner Matthews to address concerns and implement improvements effectively.
The Platinum rating reflects outstanding performance across recruitment, volunteer management, communication, public assurance, holding the force accountable, and detainee welfare.
This achievement, awarded for the second consecutive assessment period, highlights the volunteers’ dedication and the scheme's sustained excellence.
PCC Rupert Matthews expressed pride in receiving the award, acknowledging the volunteers’ tireless effort, and highlighting the crucial role of public oversight in ensuring police accountability and community trust.
Matthews congratulated the team on their continued success and commitment to the integrity and transparency of the custody visiting process.