Police custody units 'need improvements'

A report concluded there were long delays in getting healthcare staff on site when requested and on four occasions the correct procedures were not followed for someone with learning or mental health problems to have an appropriate adult present.

Overall the custody services - which include sites in Stafford and Gailey near Wolverhampton - met the required standards but the independent panel said action was needed on the issues that were found.

The report says that 'constant reminders and regular reviews should be undertaken to ensure the highest levels of care are constantly maintained'.

It adds: "Concern over the delay in healthcare professionals visiting custody suites without 24/7 cover is expressed and is something we feel effort should be made to correct.

"We had concern about the waiting time for the arrival of the healthcare professional in those custody suites without 24/7 cover, as priority is rightfully given to more urgent cases. However, this does impact on the arrival time after the initial request and there is a danger that undue delay may lead to more serious issues."

Inspectors also said more clarity was needed in the custody records on the level of observation set after a risk assessment was carried out when a suspect was checked in.

Police chiefs say they welcome the recommendations and will take immediate action.

The Ethics and Transparency Audit Panel (ETAP), who carried out the work looking at custody facilities run by Staffordshire Police, was launched under the transparency agenda by Staffordshire's Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis.

Bosses have also drawn attention to a number of positive aspects of the report.

The report said: "The Ethics Transparency & Audit Panel (ETAP) are satisfied that the conditions where detained persons (DPs) are held, are fit for purpose, being clean, well maintained and appear to be well managed."

ETAP found the process for booking in and completing the risk assessment for detainees, which determines the level of observation set by the custody sergeant, was 'robust'.

Mr Ellis said: "I am delighted with the way ETAP has developed since I established it two years ago.

"ETAP is making a real difference in improving transparency and scrutinising how the police is carrying out areas of their work."

Assistant Chief Constable Jon Drake said: "Over 23,000 people are held in the custody facilities in Staffordshire each year and we are committed to working with our service providers to deliver the highest standards of care and safeguarding for them.

"We continually look for ways to improve this service and welcome the independent view of the ETAP report. The recommendations will form part of our ongoing development in this important area of policing."