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When someone is arrested by the police
and taken to a police station they have three basic rights: -

1. The right to free and independent legal advice. 2. The right to have someone informed of their arrest 3. The right to consult the Codes Of Practice (concerning police powers and procedures)

Young people under the age of 17 and adults who are considered to be mentally vulnerable must have an 'Appropriate Adult'  with them when they are interviewed by the police.  An Appropriate Adult can be a family member, friend or often a volunteer or social/health care professional. Increasingly organised groups of trained volunteers carry out this very important role.

The National Appropriate Adult Network (NAAN) brings together those involved in managing schemes of volunteers or paid workers. NAAN gives advice, guidance and support to all those involved in this important work, provides information on training and standards, and works with Government and others on policy and practice issues.

Promoting best practice in appropriate adult work