Lloyd Butler
25 Jun 2014 · Coroner Louise Hunt · Birmingham & Solihull
The coroner's concerns
1. lack of professionalism and leadership in custody suite
“The lack of professionalism and leadership in the custody suite was striking. There was no leadership by the custody sergeant and no control of the behaviour of any of the staff. Evidence heard at the inquest indicated this sort of banter and practice was common and continuing. Many detainees in the custody block are vulnerable, often have mental health difficulties and other social problems and may be in varying degrees of intoxication. The custody staff are responsible for those detainees and”
Responses
2014-0281-Response-by-West-Midlands-Police.pdf ↗· West Midlands Police
Stated action
“Since 2010, management of custody facilities and staff has been brought under a central force department, Central Justice Services (CJS) and the number of custody suites reduced from 21 to 11. The creation of this department has allowed for greater accountability and clearer leadership.”
Stated action · June 2013
“In June 2013, WMP launched the 'Pride in our Police' campaign. This internal campaign aims to promote a culture of high professional standards and personal responsibility across the organisation.”
Stated action · already commenced
“All first and second line supervisors, Sergeants and Inspectors, are attending one day training courses, which have already commenced, covering the Code and its requirements.”
Stated action · since 2010
“All new custody officers and staff, since 2010, have undertaken a specific lesson entitled, 'The Role of the Custody Officer', as part of their training for their role.”
Stated action · every 20 weeks
“all custody staff receive one day's continuous professional development every 20 weeks.”