Code C- Conditions of Detention Flashcards
Q: What are the basic provisions to ensure detainees are kept in reasonable conditions?
Paragraphs 8.1-8.11 Code C
Set out a number of basic provisions designed to ensure that detainees are kept in reasonable conditions, respecting their dignity, safety and welfare during their time in custody.
Q: 8.1-8.2?
8.1- So far as is practicable, not more than 1 detainee should be detained in each cell
8.2- Cells in use must be adequately heated, cleaned and ventilated. They must be adequately lit, subject to such dimming as is compatible with safety and security to allow people detained overnight to sleep. No additional restraints shall be used within a locked cell unless absolutely necessary and then only restraint equipment, approved for use in that force by the chief officer, which is reasonable and necessary in the circumstances having regard to the detainee’s demeanour and with a view to ensuring their safety and the safety of others. If a detainee is deaf or a vulnerable person, particular care must be taken when deciding whether to use any form of approved restraints
Q: 8.3-8.5?
8.3- Blankets, mattresses, pillows and other bedding supplied shall be of reasonable standard and clean and sanitary condition
8.4- Access to toilet and washing facilities must be provided. This must take account of the dignity of the detainee.
8.5- If it is necessary to remove a detainee’s clothes for the purposes of investigation, for hygiene, health reasons or cleaning, removal shall be conducted with proper regard to dignity, sensitivity and vulnerability of the detainee and replacement clothing of a reasonable standard of comfort and cleanliness shall be provided.
Q: 8.6-8.8?
8.6- At least two light meals and one main meal should be offered in any 24-hour period. Drinks should be provided at mealtimes and upon reasonable request between meals. As far as practicable, meals provided shall offer a varied diet and meet any specific dietary needs or religious beliefs the detainee may have. The detainee may, at the custody officer’s discretion, have meals supplied by their family or friends at their expense.
8.7- Brief outdoor exercise shall be offered daily if practicable
8.8- A juvenile shall not be placed in a police cell unless no other secure accommodation is available and the custody officer considers it is not practicable to supervise them if they are not placed in a cell or that a cell provides more comfortable accommodation than other secure accommodation in the station. A juvenile may not be placed in a cell with a detained adult.
Q: Who has the overall responsibility for these?
Custody officer. They must make a note of all meals, clothing etc… offered and whether they have been refused.
They are responsible for regular welfare checks and risk assessments if more than one person is placed in a cell.
