Wiltshire Custody Visiting Scheme Recognised with National Silver Award

Wiltshire’s Independent Custody Visiting (ICV) Scheme has been recognised on the national stage after receiving a prestigious silver award from the Independent Custody Visiting Association, celebrating the commitment and dedication of the volunteers who help ensure people detained in police custody are treated fairly and with dignity.

The award recognises the important role ICVs play in providing a vital layer of public scrutiny and accountability. Managed by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), the scheme sees trained volunteers make unannounced visits to custody suites across Wiltshire to check on the welfare and treatment of detainees, as well as the conditions in which they are being held.

Over the past year, the scheme's 15 dedicated volunteers carried out 96 visits to custody suites across Wiltshire, speaking with approximately 350 detainees and contributing around 160 hours of volunteering time. 

Independent Custody Visitors come from all walks of life and give their time voluntarily to help build trust and confidence in policing. During their visits, they speak with detainees where appropriate, inspect facilities and ensure those in custody have access to their rights and entitlements.

The scheme provides reassurance to communities that custody suites are operating transparently and that the welfare of detainees remains a priority. Feedback from the visits also helps Wiltshire Police and the OPCC identify good practice and areas where improvements can be made.

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said:

“I’m delighted that our Independent Custody Visiting Scheme has received this national Silver Award.

“This recognition is a reflection of the fantastic commitment shown by our volunteers, who give up their time to provide independent scrutiny of police custody and help ensure detainees are treated fairly, respectfully and in line with their rights.

“Their work plays an important role in helping to build public confidence in policing and strengthening transparency and accountability across Wiltshire.

“I would like to thank each and every one of our custody visitors for the time, professionalism and dedication they bring to the scheme. This award is thoroughly deserved and recognises the positive difference they make to both policing and our communities.”

The award also shines a light on the wider importance of independent custody visiting. By acting as a bridge between the public and the police, volunteers help ensure custody remains open, accountable and focused on safeguarding those who enter the criminal justice system.

This Silver Award is a welcome recognition of the impact the Wiltshire scheme continues to have and reflects the valuable contribution volunteers make in supporting fair, transparent and accountable policing across the county.

Published Thursday 23 July 2026