NPCC response to the Dame Vera Baird Inquiry

Deputy Chief Constable Nev Kemp, NPCC lead for Custody, said:

“I welcome any independent scrutiny of police custody because it is central to how we learn and improve, especially as we are entrusted with powers that bring with them extra responsibility. Some of the details within the report are deeply concerning and it is reassuring that the recommendations are being thoroughly considered, if not already being implemented.

“It’s important that anyone who is held in custody is treated with respect and dignity, and that all processes including the use of strip search, are in line with legislation, policy and procedure. Mandatory training for custody officers was recently refreshed with a focus on recognising vulnerability and appropriate use of powers. Most forces have introduced independent custody scrutiny panels following guidance that we issued together with the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) to increase transparency, improve performance and expand accountability.

“There are often vulnerabilities and complexities that should be taken into account when making the decision to arrest and detain someone in custody, particularly for women who are themselves victims of violence and abuse. We are currently reviewing our domestic abuse training to embed a holistic approach to responding to incidents, recognising the complexity of domestic abuse and need to protect victims.

“We are carefully considering the findings and recommendations within the report with the College of Policing and the Home Office.”

Assistant Chief Constable Tom Harding, Director of Operational Standards at the College of Policing, said:

“Every person who comes into contact with the police must be treated with dignity and respect. This is the foundation upon which trust and confidence is built and without this, we cannot effectively serve the public.

“Dame Vera’s report makes for difficult, but necessary reading. Today, Greater Manchester Police has apologised to those given a voice by the inquiry, who did not receive the care and consideration they were entitled to and the force has committed to implementing the recommendations in full.

“I understand that the contents of this report will cause further concern regarding the treatment of women and girls. I want to reassure all women and girls that your safety, trust and confidence remains a priority for the College of Policing, across all of our work.

“Dame Vera recognises the importance of the College of Policing’s guidance being implemented by all forces. Our guidance sets out important considerations to help determine if an arrest is necessary and how to care for those in custody, including those who are vulnerable and those with complex needs.

“Custody is one of the most complex and high-risk areas of policing. In order to support officers and staff we have invested in new immersive training which puts them in a live custody environment with real life scenarios, dilemmas and decisions that affect the safety and wellbeing of detainees. 

“We have already been working with Greater Manchester Police as they have sought to quickly learn lessons and improve their policies and practices. We’re also supporting forces across England and Wales to strengthen their custody practices, so that every single person who comes into police custody is treated with respect and empathy.

“I am thankful to Dame Vera Baird for her thorough inquiry. We will now work across policing to respond to the findings and recommendations in her report.”

Officers and staff can find a round-up of custody guidance and standards on the College of Policing website.

You can anonymously report corruption or abuse within policing by contacting the Police Anti-Corruption and Abuse Reporting Service by calling 0800 085 0000, or via the Crimestoppers website: The Police Anti-Corruption and Abuse Reporting Service | Crimestoppers (crimestoppers-uk.org)