May 2000
On this page-
What does the London Regional Committee do?
Police Authorities - you should have your say!
The background and purpose of NALV's Central Committee

So what does the London Regional Committee do?
It became my intention to build upon the valuable work already begun by the group, by broadening the understanding amongst London Lay Visitors to gain the wider picture, and to encourage debate in a democratic forum. There is a wealth of experience from all the members of the group who represent Lay Visiting practices across the Capital. We share many common practices; from whether there is a shortage of toilet paper in cells to the more serious issues such as the use of CCTV in custody areas.

Although the subject matter appears to be from the sublime to the ridiculous, all matters are treated with the same courtesy even though priorities for action may vary.

How would I like to see the Committee develop?
I believe it is fair to say that the London Committee does not have the time to replicate what already has been discussed or actioned at borough level, except if there are implications for London in general. However, if there is a matter for our concern, it will be highlighted, shared in the team and a way forward will be agreed. I feel it is important to share issues of concern with the relevant parties, such as the MPS, Immigration Service, or external bodies, for example, the Association of Police Surgeons, who form part of the bigger picture within the Lay Visiting remit.

At each meeting we now have a topic on the agenda for discussion. A recent invitation was extended to the MPS to talk about the new national drug policy implemented as a result of the Crime & Disorder Bill. An important angle for Lay Visitors to be aware of was the possibility of future random drug testing in custody.

As a forum, together we can obtain more pertinent information and decide whether we need to be appraised of any updates as they arise.

How can these meetings maintain a high level of interest to all participants?
I would hope that subject matter of importance or contention will continue to be raised. I cannot believe we will run out of issues in the near future! It is to the advantage of the whole group to be appraised of anything that occurs, before the event.

We have finished working on our own Best Practice for Lay Visiting in London and have recently had a working party to devise a new set of report forms for common use throughout the capital once they have been agreed.

Perhaps an increased use of working parties, presentations, discussion forum and active participation by members have proved to be useful in the limited way we have already begun to do.

So I suppose what I am asking is to invite any developments or challenges to the work we are doing, but also to say thanks to all of you who have contributed so far.

Keep it coming!

Avril Jones
NALV London Regional Committee Chair

Lay Visitors are often involved in the work of these Police and Community Consultative Groups – sometimes through formal membership and reporting.  Why not get involved and go along?  You may find out some interesting information about the policing of your area and you will be able to put your views direct to senior police officers and police authority Members.

To find out when and where meetings are held in your area , contact your local Police Authority scheme administrator who will be able to let you know.  More attendees and views are always welcome!

VT would also like to hear from you if you’re involved in your local PCCG.  What good practices are there as regards Lay Visiting?  Any interesting stories?  In what ways have the PCCG made a real difference?  Write to Mike Robinson, Visiting Times, 4 York Avenue, Lincoln, LN1 1LL or E-mail him at  wordworks@robinson117.freeserve.co.uk

It is important for any organisation to be accessible for its members and not seen to be as remote and impenetrable. Well, I hope NALV is not seen as an elite organisation with no way for lay visitors to make an impact. A prime objective of NALV is to provide a forum for the discussion of matters of common concern and to facilitate the exchange of ideas and information on matters affecting their operation of lay visiting schemes. This is where lay visitors make a real difference by flagging up issues with their regional representatives and asking that they raise them at the next NALV Management Committee meeting (see how to contact your rep here)

The Management Committee meetings are held about 6 times a year; always on a Saturday, and usually in Birmingham. Lottery funding has focussed the Committee in achieving planned objecives such as training videos, training packs, trained trainers, all of which has raised the profile of lay visiting generally. The Association has been pressing the Home Office for new guidance on lay visiting and is now busy helping them with its formulation. The Committee is NALV's main body co-ordinating and running the affairs of the organisation from issues such as the budget and staffing through to training and best practice issues. There are also several Sub-Committees which assist with more detailed work.

If you have panel meetings ask the co-ordinator to contact your regional rep if you think you are on to something new. Share your concerns and your successes with us all. The Committee looks forward to hearing from you.

Rosemary Parker
Management Committee Member and Scheme Administrator for Avon & Somerset