Although PACE did not make any formal provision for establishing custody visiting schemes there was considerable discussion on the need for such schemes and how they would work.

In 1983, following consultation between the Home Office, police authorities and chief constables, the Home Office issued a document called: 'Custody Visitors to Police Stations: Guidelines (Provincial Forces)'. The document was intended to 'provide a basis for establishing pilot custody visiting schemes in different police areas.' The experience gained was to be used to judge whether they served a useful purpose.

Six pilot schemes were set up, including one in the West Midlands, and in 1984, were judged to have made a 'reasonable and successful start'. Consequently the police authorities involved suggested to the Home Office that it should 'commend' the establishment of custody visiting schemes wherever they were wanted. In view of scepticism as to the necessity of custody visiting in rural areas, it was agreed that there was no case for forcing all police authorities to establish schemes.

The Home Office issued guidance to police authorities in 1986 outlining guidance on setting up custody visiting schemes. It revised this in 1992 and we understand that it will be soon looking at its guidance again.

Background to our scheme

We have based our Custody Visiting Scheme on the initial pilot project; on subsequent guidance issued by the Home Office; good practice promoted by NALV and practical experience locally.

The details of the Scheme are contained in a handbook issued to each custody visitor following their training and on appointment. The following is a summary:

• It is independent of the police force and is managed by the Police Authority with the full support and co-operation of the Chief Constable.
• Prospective custody visitors are volunteers from the community.
• The suitability of these volunteers is assessed before we train them in all aspects of a custody visitor's role and responsibilities.
• Following successful training, a custody visitor can make unannounced visits, with another custody visitor, to any local police station with cells.

The general objective of any visit is monitor and report upon the welfare of individuals held in custody. This includes monitoring procedures and standards of accommodation.