PCC Calls for Volunteers

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Gwent is looking for volunteers to join important schemes which provide an independent check on how Gwent Police cares for people in custody and its working animals.

Following a number of retirements, Gwent PCC Jeff Cuthbert is looking for individuals from across Gwent who are willing to volunteer their spare time to either monitor the welfare of Gwent Police Dogs as Animal Welfare Visitors or to visit custody suites to ensure the fair treatment of people in police custody as Independent Custody Visitors (ICV). The recruitment process kicks off today (Tuesday 25th April 2017) and closes on 4pm on Friday, 2nd June 2017. Mr Cuthbert is urging individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) are an integral part of ensuring that the wellbeing of detainees is being monitored and that issues relating to individuals or the custody environment are addressed appropriately. The ICVs are trained to prioritise the needs of the most vulnerable detainees and that detainees are aware of their rights and entitlements.

Animal Welfare Visitors play a vital role in monitoring the welfare of some of Gwent Police's most valuable resources. Individuals visit Gwent Police dogs and their handlers on a monthly basis to check on the animal's physical condition as well as their working conditions. At the end of every visit, a report form is completed and returned to the PCC for reviewing.

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent, Jeff Cuthbert, said: "Our scheme volunteers play a vital role in raising our standards and ensuring that we treat everyone with fairness and respect. I would encourage anyone with an interest to come forward and apply."

Volunteers on both schemes will receive initial training once appointed as well as regular training in house. Travel expenses are covered by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

For further information about how to become a volunteer, please visit www.gwent.pcc.police.uk/engagement/getting-involved/ or call the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner on 01633 642 200. The forms should be submitted by post or email no later than 4pm on Friday, 2nd June 2017.