Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has paid tribute to the volunteers who help maintain high standards of custody and animal welfare across the force.
Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) are volunteers who work as part of a team making unannounced visits to police custody suites where people are brought and held following arrest.
The volunteers act as ‘critical friends’ of the force, monitoring how well detainees in custody are being treated and report their findings back to the ICV scheme manager to ensure the PCC can action any recommendations for improvement.
Animal Welfare Scheme (AWS) visitors undertake a similar role to ensure Leicestershire Police’s police dogs are being cared for appropriately.
In recognition of their work, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Rani Mahal presented the volunteers with certificates of appreciation during a special celebration event.
Mr Matthews said: “Our ICVs and AWVs do a fantastic job and have instigated important improvements that have increased standards.
“These independent scrutiny volunteers are vital for building trust and confidence in policing among the public. They dedicate long hours, without financial reward, to ensure the force is held accountable and work in the best interests of the public.
“They thoroughly deserve our recognition and praise, and I would like to thank them for all that they do to protect the people and animals in the force’s care.”
In the 12 months to 31 March 2023, there were a total of 18 ICVs across the force who carried out 97 visits and saw 763 detainees. Meanwhile, 12 AWS visits were conducted with 73 dogs seen.
Together, the volunteers contributed more than 290 hours to the schemes.
