Why ICV Schemes should not be using Microsoft Forms

Many OPCC schemes have moved away from paper, which is positive, but some are still trying to manage custody visit reports using basic online forms. That can work for simple data capture, but it quickly becomes difficult when schemes need proper reporting, issue tracking, question routing, visit histories, approvals, accessibility options and escalation.

Our ICV Reporting App has been built specifically for Independent Custody Visitor schemes with input from dozens of current and past ICVs and Scheme Managers.

It allows ICVs to record custody visits digitally, capture detainee and site-check information, flag issues, show whether matters were resolved during the visit, and provide Scheme Managers with a clearer view of what is happening across suites and across the scheme.

The system includes:
✅ Visit dashboards and graphical reporting
✅ Detainee-level and site-level reporting
✅ Exception-based issue recording
✅ Issue status tracking and resolution history
✅ Scheme Manager review and approval
✅ Escalation to inspectors where required
✅ Accessibility options for users
✅ Better consistency than generic forms
✅ A system designed around how ICV schemes actually work

Microsoft Forms and similar tools can be useful for simple surveys, but ICV reporting is not just a survey. It is a structured monitoring process involving detainee welfare, custody conditions, audit trails, resolution of concerns and scheme oversight.

For OPCCs still using basic forms, now may be the right time to move to something purpose-built, especially as there’s no set-up fee, we offer free training, and it costs under £20 per custody suite per week, with ongoing support included!

Real World Projects Limited is already supporting several ICV schemes with a practical, web-based reporting system designed around the real needs of custody visitors and scheme managers.