Calls for more Appropriate Adults as demand rises across Lincolnshire – little known role supports children in custody
Vulnerable children and adults are at risk of waiting longer in certain Lincolnshire police custody suites due to a shortage of Appropriate Adults, according to The Appropriate Adult Service, which is now recruiting in the area.
Appropriate Adults are a legal safeguard required when children or vulnerable adults are interviewed by police. They provide independent support to those being detained or interviewed, helping safeguard their rights, welfare and wellbeing. Many people have never heard of the role, but it’s incredibly flexible and can fit around other jobs, caring responsibilities or semi-retirement. The Appropriate Adult Service (TAAS) is now recruiting in Lincolnshire, particularly for people who can easily reach Boston, Skegness, Lincoln, Grantham or Kings Lynn.
Appropriate Adult callout requests to TAAS rose by over 20% between 2022 – 2025. With The Appropriate Adult Service reaching its busiest time, it is looking to raise awareness of the paid role and recruit in key areas. This will help the organisation maintain high standards and ensure fast response times. The quicker an Appropriate Adult is able to attend a callout, the less time a child or vulnerable adult is left waiting in custody.
Simon Dowe, Chief Operating Officer at The Appropriate Adult Service said: “When a frightened 14-year-old enters custody alone, an Appropriate Adult may be the only independent support they have. Many of those we see have had difficult or chaotic childhoods, or may have been groomed or pressured into committing crime, and don’t have family or friends who can step in to offer support. Right now, we’re looking for people who think they could fill that role, offering a calm, reassuring presence when it’s needed the most.”
Appropriate Adults are given full training for the role including topics like safeguarding, legal rights in custody and mental health awareness. Normally, people can do as little as one shift a week and can choose which shifts to pick up, based on other commitments. No specific background is required but strong communication skills are essential. People from all walks of life and backgrounds are welcome, especially those with lived experience of the care system or criminal justice system. It would also offer great experience for graduates of criminology/social sciences, or those interested in policing, legal services, probation and youth or children’s social care.
Bennise, an Appropriate Adult, explains why she decided to take on the role ““I’ve always been interested in supporting young people from difficult backgrounds and I’ve done a lot of work in youth clubs locally. When I heard about the Appropriate Adult role and how flexible it was, it felt like the perfect job, giving me extra income and being able to give back in our community, but also making me feel like I was making a difference. Whether it’s a young person, or vulnerable adult with learning difficulties, I know I can support & help explain what’s happening with a non-judgemental attitude to help them through a difficult time.”
Anyone interested in finding out more about the role of an Appropriate Adult should visit www.theappropriateadultservice.org.uk or contact Deb Thompson by email [email protected] or phone 07483 973 675.