The OPCC (Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner) is on the lookout for a team of volunteers to make unannounced welfare checks on people in custody.

From this month new recruits are needed to become Independent Custody Visitors (I-C-V)

Volunteers will be given full access to people who have been detained in any of the force’s custody suites, to carry out checks on their welfare and the general condition of the suites.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Sir Clive Loader said: “Independent custody visiting is primarily designed to highlight any current, or potential, issues in the custody areas. If there is a problem or complaint, most issues are dealt with at the time. However, more serious issues are forwarded to the police to resolve and the outcome is reported back to me.

“I also believe the fact that custody suites are subjected to an independent assessment gives members of the public greater confidence in the custody system.

“I am tremendously grateful to those people who give up their time to carry out these visits.”

Frank Cowlin, I-C-V Coordinator said: “We are looking to recruit people who are over 18 and from a variety of backgrounds so that we reflect the police area population. We would like to see younger people joining the scheme.

“The time involved is not huge, on average you will need to do a minimum of one visit a month, but you can do more if you choose.

“The training we get is very good and you will go on your first few visits with experienced visitors. There is really good continuing training. The scheme has gained accreditation by Investors in Volunteers.”

If you are over the age of 18 years old, live in the force area and have been resident in the UK for at least three years’ please find the application pack on www.leics.pcc.police.uk/vacancies.

Full training is given and expenses paid. The deadline for applications is Tuesday, June 30.

To volunteer or for more information email alex.adley-sweeney@leics.pcc.pnn.gov.uk or call the OPCC’s office on 0116 229 8980