WEST Mercia Police’s independent custody visitors scheme has retained its silver-level accreditation.

The national recognition from the Independent Custody Visiting Association means the scheme provides a good standard of custody visiting and volunteer management.

Providing vital public scrutiny of the custody process across West Mercia is one of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s statutory responsibilities, and the commissioner himself is committed to ensuring police custody is safe for everyone.

During their unannounced visits, the trained volunteers check on the welfare and rights of detainees, while also monitoring whether officers and staff are carrying out their duties in line with legal requirements and established procedures.

Between April 2025 and March 2026, the association conducted 160 visits and engaged with 251 detainees.

Of those available, 162 detainees consented to speak with a representative of the organisation, allowing them to assess welfare directly and offer reassurance regarding rights and entitlements.

Commissioner John Campion said: “I’m proud of the independent custody visitors scheme that I run and all of the amazing volunteers who are a crucial part of its success.

“Our dedicated scheme plays a vital role in providing transparency, reassurance and public confidence in policing, and their commitment and professionalism make a real difference.

“This accreditation is testament to the invaluable work they do every day to safeguard the welfare of people in custody and uphold the highest standards of accountability.”

An independent visitor said that they ensure that people are being cared for fairly and with dignity.

“Nobody wants to be in police custody, and it can be an unsettling experience,” she said, adding: “We play a crucial role in building public confidence and promoting transparency within policing.

The Independent Custody Visiting Association is a UK-based, government-funded membership organisation that leads and supports local schemes.