Independent Custody Visiting Policy

BTPA is committed to the principles of independent custody visiting as it provides transparency and promotes public confidence in the police. This policy sets out how BTPA will structure and carry out this function.

This document provides guidance on how the Authority will operate its independent custody visiting scheme. Therefore the guidance contained in this policy is intended to be used by the Authority Member lead, relevant Executive Staff, partner organisations, independent custody visitors and the general public.

The policy is intended to provide a framework for the Authority to develop and implement an independent custody visiting scheme as part of good practice. There is a statutory duty for all local policing bodies to have an independent custody visiting scheme, but this does not extend to BTPA, however in the interests of transparency and public confidence BTPA has decided to develop its own scheme.

For information on becoming an Independent Custody Visitor for BTPA, visit our ICV page.

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