VOLUNTEERS are needed to visit custody suites to check on the welfare of detainees.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, Martyn Underhill, launched a recruitment campaign for Independent Custody Visitors yesterday.

There are currently 13 volunteers who visit suites in Weymouth, Bridport, Poole and Bournemouth and it is hoped additional residents will get involved with the scheme.

The role sees volunteers undertake random, unannounced visits to cells to make sure those being held are being cared for appropriately and to check on conditions.

Between April 2015 and March 2016, Dorset Independent Custody Visitors made 109 unannounced visits to police stations, meeting 450 detainees.

Open events are being held at Poole Police Station on the morning of Wednesday, September 21 and the evening of Thursday, September22.

There will be an opportunity to take a look around the custody suite, meet some existing volunteers and find out more about the scheme.

Anyone looking to attend is asked to register in advance by emailing pcc@dorset.pnn.police.uk. given.