From suspected murderers to vulnerable first-time offenders, welcome to life in police custody here in the West Midlands.
There are many different circumstances that might lead to people being placed behind bars, but it is important they are treated according to the law.
That is where the PCC’s Independent Custody Visitors (ICV) and Appropriate Adults (AA) come in. They are there to help ensure fairness and dignity within the justice system.
They are volunteers who care about ensuring standards are up held, conduct inspections and accompany people in custody to ensure they are treated as they should be.
Now, West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Simon Foster is appealing for committed and compassionate individuals to join his team of volunteers, with current members highlighting the rewarding and vital nature of the roles.
Maureen Munnelly, an Appropriate Adult for four years, balances the role alongside her day job in the construction industry. “It’s such an interesting role,” Maureen explained. “I’m on call every day and can volunteer to support different custody blocks.
“You get told what the person in custody has been detained for and then you advise them on what’s going to happen – everything from requiring a solicitor to having DNA swabs and the whole process post-arrest.
“I’m also present during interviews and have been involved in some really serious cases, including homicide.”
Independent Custody Visitors operate in pairs and conduct unannounced visits to the region’s seven custody suites located in Bloxwich, Bournville, Coventry (Willenhall), Perry Barr, Oldbury, Stechford and Wolverhampton, checking on conditions, standards and rights.
Alison Walker, a retired insurance professional from Sutton Coldfield, has dedicated the last 20 years to both the ICV and AA schemes. “You’re that vital, independent and friendly face in what can be a very daunting environment for anyone,” Alison shared.
“Both roles are incredibly important. We are independent from the police, and you truly can make a big difference to a lot of people, some of whom are, of course, innocent or later found not guilty.
“An Independent Custody Visitor (ICV) visits police stations to check on the treatment of all detainees and the conditions in which they are being held.
“The Appropriate Adult scheme supports some of the most vulnerable people in the justice system. They must be present whenever a detained adult is considered vulnerable during critical stages such as police interviews, searches, and the bail and charging processes.
“Their primary aims are to support, reassure and assist with communication; break down jargon and ensure the detainee understands their rights and options. Local Authorities are responsible for providing Appropriate Adults for children in custody.”
West Midlands PCC Simon Foster, who joined his team of volunteers at Perry Barr Custody Suite this week, said: “The work of our Independent Custody Visitors and Appropriate Adults is fundamental to community accountability, trust, confidence and transparency.
“They provide an invaluable, objective assessment of the custody environment, offering protection and confidentiality to detainees, while providing reassurance to the public and myself that West Midlands Police detain individuals fairly and lawfully.
“Thanks to the commitment of our current AAs the average waiting time for support to arrive within custody has dramatically reduced from two hours to just two minutes, despite a 25 per cent rise in arrest rates.
“However, demand remains high, and we need more compassionate, community-reflective volunteers to join the scheme.”
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner is appealing for new volunteers for both schemes. AAs and ICVs can nominate dates and times that suit their availability to work across custody suites in the region.
Those interested in volunteering as an ICV or AA can email the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner at wmpcc@westmidlands.police.uk for further information on these rewarding and vital community roles.
More information about the roles and responsibilities of Independent Custody Visitors and Appropriate Adults is available on the West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner website.
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