Concerns raised over use of force in Avon and Somerset police custody
The inspection also criticised the number of children kept in custody overnight
Last updated 16th May 2024
Avon and Somerset Police custody officers are too quick to use force on detainees at risk of self-harm, an inspection has found.
The Care Quality Commission and His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) visited the region’s three custody sites in Bridgwater, Keynsham and Patchway in January.
The Commission’s report reads: “Anti-rip clothing is used without considering higher observation levels as a more appropriate and proportionate way to manage the risk of self-harm.
"When it is used, it often leads to the use of force or restraint, sometimes more than once.”
They also found that PAVA incapacitant spray, which is similar to pepper spray, was used more than in other custody centres.
Other points of improvement concerned the treatment of children, especially girls.
While the force was called “proactive” in keeping children out of custody, the report also states that those who are charged are kept in custody for too long.
“There are no procedures to prioritise the booking in of children.
"Girls under 18 aren’t always allocated a female member of staff to look after their welfare needs.
"When children are detained in custody it is often for lengthy periods. The force monitors this and has some understanding of the reasons for it.”
Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall said they are working on making sure children spend as little time in custody as possible:
“There can sometimes be challenges in securing alternative accommodation for children who are not granted bail, but we continue to work closely with partner agencies to resolve these on a case by case basis.”
However, the inspection did note that suites are generally clean and officers carry out daily health and safety checks.
They also received praise for working well with mental health services though cells could be more accessible for people with physical disabilities.
Further positive findings include:
- Caring attitude towards detainees
- Patience with violent and volatile detainees, using de-escalation and negotiation techniques
- Diverting prisoners with mental health illness away from custody
- Comprehensive training in line with College of Policing standards
- Transparency and good relationships with visitors
- Provision of a good range of reading material and stress aids for detainees
Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall said they made almost 20,000 arrests last year, so their custody sites are “always busy”.
She called the positive findings “a testament to the hard work and commitment of everyone” and said they are already working on implementing the recommendations.
“Although this report may have been published today, the invaluable feedback we received from inspectors during the course of their visit has enabled us to quickly take proactive steps to already improve the service we offer in our custody suites.”