Independent Custody Visitors (SP)

Protect Rights, Promote Fairness – Become an Independent Custody Visitor in Surrey

Do you believe in fairness, transparency, and justice? As an Independent Custody Visitor with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, you’ll play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and welfare of people held in police custody.

This is a volunteer role for members of the public who live or work in Surrey. You'll be part of a local panel and carry out unannounced visits to police stations with a fellow visitor, speaking to detainees (where appropriate), checking the custody environment, and ensuring proper procedures are being followed. Your presence helps hold police custody standards to account — and ensures the dignity and rights of all individuals are respected.

Key role details:

• Location: Across Surrey – you’ll visit police stations in your assigned panel area
• Time commitment: Approximately 3–5 hours per month
• Appointment length: Initial term of 3 years, renewable following appraisal
• Induction: One-day training (usually on a Saturday) following a successful interview
  
• Eligibility: Must be aged 18+, and either live or work in Surrey
  
• Travel: Own transport required (mileage/travel expenses reimbursed).

You don’t need any previous experience, and a past criminal record doesn’t automatically exclude you — all applicants are carefully vetted and assessed individually. However, certain roles (e.g. magistrates) may present a conflict of interest.

What skills do I need?

As a custody visitor, you’ll build key interpersonal and analytical skills in a unique civic role:

• You’ll develop strong observational awareness, picking up on important details in a fast-paced environment.
• You’ll strengthen your ability to remain impartial and non-judgemental when engaging with detainees and staff alike.
• Clear and accurate record-keeping is vital — you’ll report your findings and flag any concerns in a fair and factual way.
• This role also fosters confidence, discretion, and a deeper understanding of policing and human rights.

This is an excellent opportunity for anyone passionate about justice, civil liberties, or community oversight.