Background

On 1 April 2013, a statutory duty was placed on the Scottish Police Authority to maintain and manage the Independent Custody Visiting Scotland (ICVS) Scheme to monitor the welfare of people detained in police custody facilities throughout Scotland.

Chapter 16 of the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 states that the ICVS is to provide independent monitoring of Police Scotland custody to ensure that detainees are being treated fairly and in accordance with the United Nations Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT). OPCAT recognises that people who have been detained are particularly vulnerable and require nation states to set up a national body that can support efforts to prevent ill-treatment in custody settings.

The Scheme plays an important role supporting the Authority to meet its obligations in relation to ensuring people in custody are treated fairly, with integrity and that their human rights are protected. It also offers independent assurance that Police Scotland is treating detainees with dignity and respect, and provides assurance that police custody in Scotland is upholding international standards set by the United Nations to prevent torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment of detainees.

The 2023-24 Annual Report is attached as an appendix to this cover paper. The report highlights the activities, insights and independent assurance provided by the ICV scheme, which is delivered by 88 volunteers (Independent Custody Visitors – ICVs) who are supported by a small team of Authority Corporate staff.