Hounslow Police Seek Appropriate Adult Volunteers
Help safeguard the rights of the vulnerable in police custody
|
Hounslow Police are seeking to set up a brand new appropriate Adult Volunteer scheme to help safeguard the rights of vulnerable adults detained in police custody.
If you are interested in the criminal justice system or just want to help vulnerable adults with mental health issues and learning difficulties; this present an exciting opportunity to take an active role within your local community and develop your understanding, awareness and skills in this field of work.
As part of your role you will attend call outs to a police station to help facilitate communication, attend police interviews alongside the vulnerable person, ensuring they are conducted within a proper and fair manner. The appropriate adult will also ensure the detainees welfare is looked after and that they fully understand their legal rights and entitlements.
What are the requirements for me to apply?
To apply for this scheme, you must be:
- Aged 18 or over
- Able to commit yourself to an on-call rota on a weekly basis, (Monday - Sunday)
- Have good verbal and communication skills
- Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with a range of different individual's. For example vulnerable adults detained in custody, police offices and other representatives from statutory and voluntary agencies.
How often will I be used?
Volunteers who are selected will be placed on a rota system and will work with a scheme co-ordinator. Some volunteers may be able to offer one day a month to be available and others maybe more. This will vary on each person’s personal circumstances and we will be flexible.
How will I be called and at what time?
Once placed on a rota your details will be available to the custody staff at Hounslow custody suite. If you are shown as being available and an appropriate adult is required you will receive a call from a custody sergeant requesting your assistance. This could be at any hour of the day including nights.
Will I receive training?
Yes, all appropriate adults will receives training. The training will consist of an input on the role of an appropriate adult, safety in custody, and an input from MIND and other external support groups.
How long will I have to do the role?
This is a voluntary role and we are very grateful for any community time which can be given, however due to the time taken to recruit and train we would like people to be able to commit for at least a year.
What do I do next if I am interested?
If you are interested please email Inspector Andy Blackburn or call 0208 247 6655.
