MONITORING PLACES OF DETENTION : A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR NGOS 45 2.2. Size The size of the visiting team depends on a number of factors, for instance: ■ the objectives of the visit; ■ how much is already known about the place and its problems; ■ the size of the establishment and the number of persons held there; ■ any constraints laid down by the detaining authorities. The ideal size for a visiting team can be estimated as being between 2 and 8 individuals. 2.3. Training The team members who are going to take part in a visit should have received basic training about: ■ the issues and problems relating to the deprivation of liberty; ■ the objectives of the visits; ■ the necessary points of reference for monitoring conditions of detention, in particular the relevant laws and regulations; ■ the behaviour to adopt with the authorities, staff, and detainees.