It’s Volunteers Week and Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn is seeking volunteers to act as Independent Custody Visitors (ICV) across the Dyfed-Powys area.

The vital role entails visiting custody suites in pairs, unannounced, at any time of the day or night and providing an independent check on the welfare of the detainees in custody. You would be part of a dynamic volunteer team who checks on conditions at police cells.

More than 7,400 people are kept in Dyfed-Powys police cells every year.

By law, they have rights such as accessing legal and medical help, and there’s Government guidance on matters such as cell cleanliness and safety.

To help in this process Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn operates his Independent Custody Visiting Scheme.

Mr Llywelyn said: “Our ICVs perform a valuable function; their work helps to reassure local people that detainees in our communities are being treated fairly.

“This scheme – and others run by my office – help protect vulnerable people and ensure professionalism in Dyfed-Powys Police.

“They offer superb opportunities and I urge local residents to get involved.”

Training is given for volunteers and expenses offered.

If you’re interested in becoming an independent custody visitor log on to dyfedpowys-pcc.org.uk/en/work-with-me/volunteer/independent-custody-visitors/ or call 01267 226440.