Mixed report for policy custody areas (From Swindon Advertiser)

Mixed report for policy custody areas

3:10pm Monday 8th February 2010 in

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Wiltshire Police has received a mixed report following an inspection of its custody suites.

Inspectors highlighted some areas for concern, particularly on links with mental health services.

The inspection was carried out jointly by HM Inspectorate of Prisons and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and covered three custody suites in Swindon, Melksham and Salisbury. Overall the inspection found a generally positive picture with detention well-managed and some areas of excellent practice. However, some concerns were raised:

* Detention officers were used for booking in detainees, instead of custody sergeants;

* A number of cells had ligature points;

* The specific needs of women and detainees with disabilities were not well met;

* Complaint systems and management of forensic samples needed to be improved.

The report also said services for substance abusers and people with mental health issues were varied and need to be improved.