Below you can read a number of case studies and feedback pieces from our panel members

Dr Arshad Jarral visits Maidenhead Custody Suite (December 2025)

“I visited the Maidenhead Custody Detention Suite to get a better understanding of how a custody detention operates in practice, along with Independent Custody Visiting (ICV) scheme functions and how effectively concerns are scrutinised and escalated.

“The visit was facilitated by Lisa Honess (Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner) and Doug Clark. Doug, a long-standing ICV Panel Coordinator, immediately set the tone with a clear briefing. His experience was evident as he explained how the custody suite operates, role of independent visitors and the routine of weekly unannounced visits that are central to independent scrutiny.

“Doug explained that ICV visits are a statutory requirement that take place weekly, without notice, and are conducted by at least two independent panel members to provide assurance that detainee dignity, welfare and rights are being respected. Panel members are able to scrutinise, observe and report on custody conditions following detention, review records, and speak with staff at all operational levels. I was shown the detention cells, front desk, control room, and storage areas for food and supplies. Throughout the visit, staff were professional, open, and willing to explain their roles, creating a sense of transparency and calm.

“The suite is a large facility, capable of holding around 26 detainees, with separate provision for children and those requiring additional support. On this particular day, the environment was unusually quiet with only one detainee present (who was released during the visit). Doug remarked that this was highly unusual. While this limited the opportunity to observe detainee experience, it allowed time to explore the physical environment.

“Welfare and protection were described as clear priorities, with systems in place to address health, faith, and dietary needs. Chaplaincy services are available, including access to a Muslim chaplain, and food options cater for vegetarian and halal requirements. BAME representation among custody staff was described as strong across all levels. However, this diversity is not yet reflected within the ICV Panel itself.

“Detainees have access to legal representatives, but family members are not permitted to meet onsite. They are, however, able to nominate a family contact whom the Police will call to inform them that the detainee is in custody. I raised previous concerns from a family, who were struggling to find a release point. It was explained that directions are provided, and detainees can contact their families on release. This highlighted how small gaps in communication can cause unnecessary anxiety.

“Most detainees are held for less than 24 hours, and extended detention rarely exceeds 48 hours. However, when detention spans weekends or bank holidays, and court presentation is delayed, this can stretch to three or four days. While lawful, this has clear implications for welfare and public confidence.

“Towards the end of the visit, we discussed scrutiny itself. Doug expressed concern that, although ICV panels regularly identify issues and observations, these are not always reviewed at a strategic level. Despite expectations of higher-level oversight and reporting, consistent mechanisms for this appear to be lacking.

“Overall, the custody suite felt well-run and professionally managed, with committed staff and appropriate attention to detainee welfare. Yet, there remains a gap between the strength of local independent scrutiny and the visibility of that scrutiny at strategic levels. Strengthening that connection, regular updates for the IAGs and ISOB and improving panel diversity and communication with the public would enhance the impact and credibility of the ICV scheme.”