The Scottish Police Authority, in discussion with Police Scotland and the Scottish Government, has taken the decision to temporarily suspend all physical independent custody visiting in Scotland until further notice. We have asked that visitors revert to telephone monitoring from today (Friday 17 December 2021).

This decision has been made in the best interest of the health of our visitors, detainees, custody staff and officers.

The Authority has a duty of care to our staff and visitors and, as a result of the new Omicron variant, we do not consider it appropriate to place anyone at what could be considered unnecessary risk. Police Scotland custody staff and officers have been advised of this suspension to physical visits, and reminded of the importance of ensuring custody visiting through telephone monitoring can take place.

The Authority will continue to monitor the situation on a regular basis and wish to thank staff and volunteers for their continued support to the scheme through the monitoring of care, welfare and dignity of those held in police custody in these unprecedented times.

Article initially published 17 December 2021