A Day in the Life of an Appropriate Adult
- tabatha6853
- Sep 25
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 30
Appropriate Adults play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights, welfare, and dignity of children and vulnerable adults during police procedures and related interviews. Their work ensures that no one faces these processes alone or without understanding.
Today, we’re sharing the experiences of one of our dedicated Appropriate Adults, who has been part of TAAS for over a decade. Names have been changed to protect privacy.
How did you enter the field?
How long have you been an Appropriate Adult? I’ve been an Appropriate Adult for 12 years.
What first motivated you to get involved in this role? I have a background of working with young people in educational settings who become involved in the criminal justice system due to behaviours displayed linked to their individual diagnosis.
Is there any background experience that influenced your decision? My past experience in the role of Teaching Assistant in a boarding school for students with ASD has given me insight into the complex needs of young people who sometimes have a difficulty in expressing themselves and being understood. Having seen students becoming involved in the criminal justice system and struggling to cope with the arrest system encouraged me to investigate the role.
What does the role of an Appropriate Adult actually look like?
What does a typical day or assignment look like for you? A typical day in the role of an AA can vary greatly. This will depend on the stations I am covering and the availability I have provided for the period of time. It’s fair to say that there is absolutely no day the same. My day could involve being based in one custody suite or moving around between several.
What kinds of situations or settings do you most often work in? My main work setting is my local custody suite. However, I regularly travel to the other custody suites within the country when juvenile detainees or vulnerable adults are being held in custody. I also work with RSPCA personnel who interview individuals regarding allegations of animal cruelty. These interviews vary greatly from police interviews but are conducted under the same caution.
I also assist with individuals who are being interviewed in a job centre setting who are suspected of abusing the benefit system. These interviews are also held under caution.
Another key aspect of my role involved specialised training within TAAS to support young people during age assessment interviews conducted by local authorities. These assessments typically span three sessions and involve a collaborative team including myself, two social workers, and an appropriate interpreter when needed. The young people we work with are navigating the asylum process, where questions have arisen regarding whether they should be classified as juvenile or adult asylum seekers - a distinction that could significantly impact their legal rights and support entitlements.
How do you support children or vulnerable adults during interviews or assessments? With all assignments the main priority is to ensure that the process is being conducted fairly. It is a requirement not just to observe but to ascertain whether the individual understands the process, understands their rights and is able to communicate adequately with the interviewers/assessors. High priority being placed on communications and understanding at all times.
What has been the most challenging part of the role for you? It has to be said that certain elements of the role can be upsetting and challenging. I work with a management team who will provide support for any difficulties I encounter whilst carrying out my role and ongoing assistance if necessary. I have been able, so far, to manage the situations I have encountered and successfully leave the emotional side of the role behind without too much difficulty.
What has been the most rewarding part of the role? The most rewarding part of the role is seeing, first hand, the difference I can make to an individual’s time in custody.
Reflections on the role of an Appropriate Adult
Why do you think the Appropriate Adult role is important? The AA role is becoming more and more important as mental health vulnerability seems to be on the rise.
How do you feel your work contributes to fairness in the criminal justice system? My work helps bridge important gaps in understanding around autism and mental health within the criminal justice system. While police officers have demanding roles with broad responsibilities, specialised training in neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions isn't always extensive. I'm able to provide targeted support by helping officers understand how different communication approaches and environmental adjustments can be more effective for individuals with autism or mental health needs. When I work with the same individuals repeatedly, it allows me to build rapport and familiarity, which often helps reduce their anxiety and improves outcomes for everyone involved. This collaborative approach ensures that vulnerable individuals receive appropriate support while enabling officers to carry out their duties more effectively.
Have there been any moments that really brought home the impact of your work? I have dealt with numerous serious allegations where police and detainees alike have thanked me for my patience and understanding... and often endurance!
Sharing advice for others
What would you say to someone who is thinking about becoming an Appropriate Adult? I would wholeheartedly recommend this role to anyone who wants to make a meaningful impact in people's lives during some of their most vulnerable moments. As an Appropriate Adult, you become a crucial advocate for individuals with learning disabilities or mental health conditions who might otherwise struggle to navigate the criminal justice system alone. The role offers incredible variety - no two days are the same - and you'll work alongside police officers, social workers, and other professionals as part of a collaborative team. While the work can be emotionally demanding, it's deeply rewarding to know that your presence ensures someone receives the support and understanding they need to have their voice heard. You'll gain valuable insights into the justice system, develop strong communication skills, and most importantly, help ensure fairness and dignity for some of society's most vulnerable members. If you're someone who values justice, has good listening skills, and wants to make a tangible difference in your community, this role could be perfect for you.
Our Appropriate Adult's story shines a light on the variety, challenges, and real impact of being an Appropriate Adult. From supporting young people and vulnerable adults in custody, to safeguarding those involved in interviews and assessments, the role makes a vital difference every day, and provides a job like no other - where two days are never the same.
At The Appropriate Adult Service, we’re extremely proud to work with dedicated individuals like this who stand up for fairness and dignity in the justice system. If you’d like to join our team and become an Appropriate Adult, find out more here →.
