Andrew’s volunteering journey with the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA)

After a presentation with a CAVO Youth Volunteer Adviser (YVA), I was interested in participating as a volunteer in the Ceredigion area. Outside my student timetable I wanted to do some voluntary work alongside my specific interest of the law. After a further meeting with a YVA we discussed what kind of schemes there was available and what schemes appealed to me.
This lead to applying to a local voluntary scheme called The Independent Custody Visiting Association. The ICVA is a voluntary organisation which works in the criminal justice system, and supports police authorities in the delivery of their statutory obligation to provide independent oversight for people detained in police custody.

After an informal meeting I was invited back with 8 other chosen candidates for an interview for the two available positions. I was successful in my application and in December was enrolled as an Independent Custody Visitor (ICV).

My role in this organisation is to take two visits to the Aberystwyth custody suite per month. We always work in pairs with a changing rota of ICV’s. We ensure that people in custody are cared for in accordance with their statutory rights. We observe and comment on the general conditions of the suite and the detainees. This is done by a report each time we visit, and to ensure we are effective, all visits are undertaken at random times and are unannounced. I must make sure I work within the code of practice and this is done through training days and panel meetings.

Since undertaking the voluntary scheme I have gained many valuable transferable skills. I have a lot of personal confidence now and the experience has strengthened my communication skills. Being part of a voluntary scheme has been beneficial to me as it has enabled me to be a part of a range of new experiences that my university course couldn’t offer. I have become very good friends with my new colleagues and have met potential contacts that will be beneficial in my career in years to come. Volunteering has been very valuable to me. It will continue to be a valuable source offering new opportunities to those who are looking to take part in something they are interested in. I had my own reasons to volunteer and anyone looking to do the same will appreciate how much they gain personally from volunteering. I couldn’t recommend volunteering with enough praise and gratitude.