PCC funds new guides to support vulnerable young people and female detainees in police custody.

Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen has funded two new guides to improve support for young people and adults with learning disabilities and female detainees who come into police custody.

The County Durham and Darlington PCC has worked with local partners to produce two information leaflets to improve understanding of the custody system for young people and adults with learning disabilities and vulnerable women.

The leaflets are designed to explain custody processes in an easy-to-read format and help people to understand their rights and entitlements. They also signpost women to additional support they may need and ensure young people and those with additional needs feel safe and supported while in police custody.

Young people aged 18 or under will be provided with the leaflet when they are booked into police custody. It will be theirs to keep and will be available for them to read in their cell with custody staff fully briefed to answer any questions they may have.

Female detainees will be provided with a separate leaflet detailing local support services they may require and information about how to access hygiene products or a healthcare practitioner.  

Both leaflets have been developed in conjunction with health and voluntary partners to ensure appropriate language and information is included.

Commissioner Allen said: “Custody can be a worrying and intimidating place for most people, but even more so for those who are vulnerable or have additional physical, mental or emotional needs. It is vital we pay extra attention to these detainees and provide them with the appropriate care and support they need so they do not feel overwhelmed by their experiences.

“This is why as Commissioner I supported a full review of our custody literature to ensure people feel safe and supported throughout the custody process. It was clear the current literature was out of date. To remedy the issue we consulted specialist organisations and partners in the design process to ensure the information provided was both relevant and presented in a way that young people or women can relate to.

“As part of the design process, we will be testing the young people’s leaflet with a group of young people to ensure it communicates well and promotes reassurance.”

As part of the Safer People priority of her Police and Crime Plan, the Commissioner has pledged to liaise with Public Health, Mental Health services and other key agencies to ensure that potential offenders get access to the support they need.