Cell 'welcome pack' for suspects

The welcome packs are designed to help stop re-offending

Police in Hertfordshire are to issue a "welcome pack" to people they arrest.

The scheme, which will operate at Watford Police Station, is the first of its kind in the country.

It is being funded by Crimestoppers.

Officers say there is a serious point behind the welcome packs, more usually found in hotels than police cells.

The packs provide suspects in custody with information about what their stay might involve and useful details, like where they can smoke a cigarette.

The pack also provides details of where to get help for alcohol and drug problems in an attempt to stop re-offending.

There is also an opportunity for them to wipe the slate clean Sergeant Dick Wiggins

The officer behind the idea Sergeant Dick Wiggins, said: "Prisoners have always been made aware of their legal rights while they are in custody, but this pack gives them more of an idea about housekeeping rules.

"There is also an opportunity for them to wipe the slate clean.

"The pack encourages prisoners to let us know about any previous offences they have committed, so that these can be dealt with at the same time.

"This not only means they avoid future arrest, it also saves the courts a lot of time and money."

Neil Dickens, from Crimestoppers, said they welcomed the opportunity of joining Watford Police in the initiative.