Fancy a close look inside a police cell? (From Somerset County Gazette)

Fancy a close look inside a police cell?

7:50pm Thursday 29th July 2010

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AVON and Somerset Police Authority is looking for volunteers to go behind the scenes of police stations to check on the welfare of detainees in custody.

The Police Authority's Independent Custody Visiting Scheme recruits volunteers from the local community to make unannounced visits to police custody.

Following nationally recognised training the Custody Visitors go to police cells in pairs to check custody facilities and conditions.

Custody Visiting Development Officer Lorna Muffett says that the volunteers provide an independent check on the welfare of detainees and their opinions are listened to.

"Custody visiting provides impartial feedback on the way in which people in custody are treated," she said.

"Entering custody facilities for the first time can be a very daunting experience for anyone. Our job is to ensure that those in custody are being treated fairly and are in suitable accommodation.

"We want to see a wide range of applicants from all corners of the community which gives the public even greater reassurance that we really do consider everyone's viewpoint."

Avon and Somerset Police Authority is looking for volunteers in the Bristol, Bath, Weston-super-Mare, Taunton and Bridgwater areas.

To apply you must be at least 18 years of age and live or work within Avon and Somerset.

Volunteers are expected to carry out one visit a month and they will receive travel expenses.

To find out more go to www.aspola.org.uk/custody or call Lorna Muffett on 01275-816385 or email lorna.muffett@avonandsomerset.police.uk.

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