Dorset’s Independent Custody Visiting Scheme, run by the OPCC and supported by volunteers, received a gold quality assurance award from the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA) on July 8. The scheme involves trained volunteers making unannounced visits to custody suites to check on the rights, entitlements, wellbeing and dignity of detainees. David Sidwick, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, said: "I am absolutely delighted that the Dorset Independent Custody Visiting Scheme has been recognised with ICVA's Gold Quality Assurance Award. The ICVA’s quality assurance framework assesses how well schemes comply with the code of practice that governs custody visiting. Dame Anne Owers, chair of ICVA, said: "Once again, these awards show the value and importance of independent custody visiting, with even more schemes being awarded the top 'platinum' grading."