Volunteering
The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) requires that an appropriate adult be called to a police station whenever a young person aged 10-16 or a person who is mentally vulnerable has been detained in police custody. In most cases somebody known to the detained person such as a parent or carer will carry out this role.

However there are times when this may not be possible and then Kent Police will request the attendance of an accredited volunteer from the Kent Appropriate Adult Service.
The appropriate adult has an important part to play in the custody environment by ensuring that the detained person is able to understand what is happening and why and that his/her rights are respected.

The role of the appropriate adult is:

• to advise the person being questioned;
• to observe whether or not the interview is being conducted properly and fairly;
• to facilitate communication with the person being interviewed.


This incredibly interesting role offers opportunities to advise and assist young people and vulnerable adults in times of trouble and need. Volunteers are also in working contact with police and solicitors.