FOREWORD

I am pleased to present the 2025-26 Annual report for Independent Custody Visiting Scotland (ICVS).

The report reflects the continued commitment for our Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs), whose dedication and professionalism provides vital independent oversight of police custody across Scotland. Through unannounced visits to custody centres, ICVs help ensure that individuals detained in police custody are treated with dignity, fairness and respect, and that their rights and welfare are upheld.

Custody visiting provides an essential role in strengthening public confidence and accountability within the custody environment. The work of ICVs helps to contribute to the ongoing improvement of custody services through constructive feedback, observations and engagement with custody officers and staff.

Throughout 2025-26, ICVs continued to highlight examples of professionalism and compassionate care shown by custody staff in often demanding circumstances. Across many custody centres, staff have continued to deliver safe and respectful care despite increasing pressures on resources, staffing and facilities.

ICVs have reported the impact that wider operational demands, ageing estate and the closure or reduced use of some custody centres can have on both staff and detainees, increased workloads and pressure on capacity within remaining sites.

The scheme continues to identify areas where further investment are needed, particularly in supporting vulnerable individuals, improving custody environments and equipping staff and officers with the right tools to ensure consistent standards across the custody estate.

The Authority (SPA) remains committed to supporting and developing the Independent Custody Visiting Scheme in Scotland and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to every custody visitor, as well as the ICVS team and partner organisations, for their ongoing dedication and support.

Alasdair Hay CBE QFSM
Chair, Scottish Police Authority