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Custody Visiting Scheme

Becoming a Custody Visitor

The Police Board recently ran a recruitment campaign for Custody Visitors. The closing date for applications was Wednesday 15 February 2012.

If you are interested in becoming a Custody Visitor but did not apply during the recruitment campaign, you can register your interest for future recruitment by sending an email to policeboard@edinburgh.gov.uk or calling the Police Board on 0131 529 4121.

Training for Potential Custody Visitors

Applicants will be invited to attend a one-day training session which is organised by the Police Board, this usually takes place at the weekend. The training day is part of the selection process and will provide those who are subsequently appointed with the basic knowledge and skills they will need to be a Custody Visitor.

The Interview Process 

Candidates will be invited to attend a formal interview conducted by members of the Police Board who will make a decision about who should be recommended to be appointed as a Custody Visitor. Not all applicants will necessarily be selected for interview. Appointments of Custody Visitors will be made at a meeting of the Police Board.

Custody visitors are expected to attend further training sessions as arranged by the Police Authority, to be informed on new developments and to maintain contact with other Custody visitors.

Restrictions to becoming a Custody Visitor 

Custody Visitors should not:

  • be an officer in the Police (including the Special Constabulary) of probation service
  • be members of the Police Board or Justices of the Peace
  • have been convicted of a serious offence within the last five years
  • have been to prision