Recommendation 1
IOPC recommendationThe IOPC recommends that North Yorkshire Police should create guidance for custody staff to support them in implementing the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) and adhering to Code C of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) with regards to the care of detainees with chronic health conditions. The guidance should support custody staff in identifying such conditions and taking appropriate action, such as requesting the advice of an HCP.
In the interim, the force should issue a communication to custody officers and staff highlighting the relevant sections of APP and PACE Code C.
Context In this case a detainee with a chronic health condition was not assessed by an HCP [healthcare professional] whilst in custody for 6.25 hours despite the detainee advising they have a chronic health condition, and during a cell check an hour prior to release from custody requested medication. This suggests there may be a need for additional support for custody officers and staff to understand their responsibilities in relation to a detainee with a chronic medical condition.
Further, the force confirmed they do not have guidance underpinning local implementation of APP. This is an issue that has been discussed with the National Police Chiefs' Council who confirmed they would expect forces to have supporting guidance for their officers and staff (albeit it is not an explicit requirement, and the extent of any such guidance is not defined).
Accepted:
DI Warren Peters (PSD) working with Insp Rich Champion (Criminal Justice) on these actions. Work has been ongoing regarding these in terms of communications and any training requirements. The recommendations are accepted and a full update will be provided by DI Warren Peters to the IOPC.
16/09/24 I have received the following from Insp Champion in Criminal Justice:
Chronic Health conditions Following a recent IOPC investigation involving a detainee in custody it became apparent that the detainee was suffering from a chronic health condition – i.e. diabetes. This was information given by the detainee who also stated that they needed medication. The detainee was not booked in to see the HCP until they had been in custody for over 6 hours. Therefore this is a reminder to everyone that if a detainee is suffering from any chronic health condition they must be booked in to see the HCP at the earliest opportunity.
This update forms part of their Custody Bulletin detailing matters of importance to custody staff.
I have attached a copy of the custody bulletin.
For the longer term plan around this issue please see below.