Hampshire Police Authority

19 February, 2002

Custody Visits to Police Stations - July to December, 2001

Report of the Convenor of the Isle of Wight Panel

1. Visits made during July to December, 2001

Of the 13 detainees not seen the reasons given are as follows:

Detainee refused 1
Detainees being interviewed 7
Detainees in sleep period 2
Juveniles 2
Other reasons 1

2. General Remarks

2.1. All detainees seen had no complaints and were satisfied with their treatment.

2.2. All custody areas were kept clean and in good order.

2.3. The Medical Room, it was noted, was very cluttered and cramped. Boxes of supplies certainly didn't help and it was felt the room needed an overhaul and a "re-think" perhaps for more cupboard space.

2.4. It was noted in this period of time, the temperature in the Custody Suite and cells can get very warm and uncomfortable.

2.5. Observations regarding the Custody Suite staff were that they were seen to be efficient and helpful towards detainees, even at their most busiest times.

2.6. The Independent Custody Visitors were treated with courtesy and professionalism.

3. Other Remarks

3.1. The Seminar held in September at Netley was again a very informative day with 4 of the panel attending.

3.2. Thanks must go to Sharon Jackson for the content and organisation, it was well received.

3.3. The Convenor attended the National Conference for Independent Custody Visiting Association in December which was held in the Scottish Police College, Kincardine, Scotland. This was a well attended conference with an interesting programme. One of the most informative and thought provoking was a presentation from three young people from Romania on their experience of Lay Visiting.

3.4. Also speaking was Alexandru Farcas, Secretary of State for European Union Integration and International Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Romania.

3.5. One new member joined the Panel, in this period which brings the Isle of Wight Panel up to full strength.

3.6. The visitors found no breaches of the Code of Practice governing the treatment of detainees.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the report be noted.

4fR710202