Police custody officers group have been recognised for their work with detainees throughout large transformations in policing over the previous yr.
Police custody officers – these accountable for the security, welfare, and safety of detainees – have been named as Team of the Year on the Thames Valley Police Federation Bravery Awards 2026.
The power says that the award honours the group’s dedication, integrity and courage in performing one of probably the most difficult and very important roles in policing.
Every day, Thames Valley’s custody officers make important choices that steadiness danger with safeguarding susceptible people. The power says that these choices are made whereas treating each particular person with dignity and respect, even when confronted with violence, aggression and abuse.
A/Insp Hunter works out of Abingdon and Banbury. He mentioned: “The detention officers work really hard and it can be busy, demanding and non-stop. We’re a gateway for everyone who comes through.
“And we make a difference to the detainees as well. Sometimes we’re the only people who really speak to them and give them time.
“Some of them are really sad, and this is a low point in their lives, but you can talk to them and say, ‘Actually there is light at the end of the tunnel. It will get better’. You can give them support and signpost them to places, and some of them are genuinely grateful for what you’ve done for them.”
Custody Sergeant James Wiggs, who works in Aylesbury custody suite, added: “Also, if you do have a really bad person in, you realise we’re helping the victims that we never meet here in custody. We’re actually helping these people out by keeping these other people away from them.”
Thames Valley’s custody command has been by way of important adjustments over the previous yr. The group has been recommended for responding properly and embracing new methods of working, after suggestions from HMICFRS and native policing colleagues.
Thames Valley police say the transformation has seen lowered ready instances, and improved effectivity and detainee care. Staff have additionally gained nearer working relationships with native policing, strengthening collaboration and outcomes.
A current Health and Safety Executive inspection highlighted glorious practices in search scrutiny and well being and security compliance.
Thames Valley Police Federation Chair Aileen O’Connor mentioned: “Custody officers are often the unsung heroes of policing – operating in one of the most complex and demanding roles, and facing intense scrutiny.
“There is a preventative element to their work too, as they try to find those moments when a detainee could be diverted away from crime or referred for additional help to stop the cycle of offending.”
The officers will attend the 2026 Thames Valley Police Federation Bravery Awards on Thursday, April 16.
