Page 79 - Once a copper 10 03 2020

The Gaffer assured me that upon my return to the shift, he would make sure I
got the postings I wanted, knowing full well I preferred to work with
experienced officers from whom I could learn and give my best.

So it was, from the next early turn, I would report for my temporary duties as a
substitute Prison Officer at Steelhouse Lane Lock Up, Birmingham City Centre.

Figure 34 Front entrance Steelhouse Lane Central Lock-Up

The Police Station and adjacent Custody Suite appeared on Steelhouse Lane
in the 1890s. The Birmingham Central Custody Suite is often described as a
mini-prison, with capacity to house over 50 detainees. It centralised custody
facilities from nearby stations in a bid to cut costs and improve standards.

The building is one of the oldest remaining operational custody suites in the
country, making West Midlands Police custodians of an important part of
Birmingham’s heritage.

The building has Grade II listed status, meaning that many of the features
such as the toilets and wooden cell doors cannot be changed.

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