What is an appropriate adult?
Under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) 1984, all people under the age of 17 and those over 17 with mental health problems and learning difficulties must have an appropriate adult present when they are being questioned by the police.
We work with the Rainer South London Appropriate Adult Service to provide this service.
Rainer have volunteers who provide support, assistance and advice to those who are under arrest in local police stations.
What are the main roles of an appropriate adult?
- to give support and advice to the detained person
- to facilitate communication between the police and the detained person
- to ensure police interviews are conducted fairly and properly
- to check welfare issues
- to look at custody records to ensure the person has been treated properly
- to make sure the person understands the interview process
An appropriate adult can also delay interviews if they feel it is necessary.
What type of person makes a good appropriate adult?
Someone who:
- is interested in the needs of young people
- is non-judgemental
- has an understanding approach to people with mental health problems and learning disabilities
- is reliable and punctual
- is a good communicator
- is over 21
- is not employed by the police
How do I become an appropriate adult?
You will need to complete an application form and attend an interview for acceptance on to our training programme.
Comprehensive training on the PACE Codes of Practice and your role as an Appropriate Adult is provided. Our course is BTEC accredited.
We provide a supportive introduction into the role with ‘shadowing’ of experienced volunteers. The service also reimburses all expenses and provides help and support through meetings with other volunteers and the co-ordinator.
What is expected of me?
To be available for at least one six-hour session a week.
To commit for one year.
Contact us
Joseph Kiguwa
Service Manager
Rainer South London Appropriate Adult Service
Greenwich Young People's Centre
Newhaven Gardens
Eltham London SE9 6HQ.
Tel: 020 8859 4492 extension 2028