LEARNING THE LESSONS - CUSTODY

By: LEARNING THE LESSONS COMMITTEE

Bulletin 3 February 2008

This bulletin summarises reports of investigations carried out by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) or police forces into police custody matters. These reports have been chosen because they provide learning opportunities for other police forces facing similar situations and may help them improve their policies and practices.

This bulletin is issued by an inter-agency Learning the Lessons Committee. Its members all have a role to play in enhancing the service provided by the police:

• Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC)
• Association of Police Authorities (APA)
• Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO)
• HM Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC)
• National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA)
• The Home Office

This bulletin should be used to alert relevant officers and staff to the serious consequences of simple oversights or failures to follow procedure. In some cases, changes may be needed, in policy or practice, or training, to the physical environment or otherwise. Forces should ensure the bulletin is brought to the attention of those who need to see it for these purposes.