“Appropriate Adults are the ‘safety valve’ to ensure individuals arrested have their rights protected”

Neil Hussey has been an Appropriate Adult with Adferiad for nearly 15 years – a role that has seen him support thousands of vulnerable individuals across South Wales and Gwent, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Before joining the service, Neil spent over 30 years working in construction on civil service buildings across the region. After a workplace accident left him unable to continue in a physical role, he began looking for new ways to contribute to his local community in Merthyr Tydfil. 

Volunteering in youth and community projects helped Neil discover his passion for supporting people. His experience later expanded into youth offending and children’s services, and it was during this time that he received a phone call about becoming an Appropriate Adult with Adferiad. 

In 2011, Neil joined the service, offering independent guidance and support to individuals arrested and held in custody. Appropriate Adults play a crucial role in ensuring the rights and welfare of vulnerable people are protected during police interviews and legal processes – covering all types of cases, from minor offences such as theft or assault to serious crimes including rape and murder. 

Now approaching 15 years in the role, Neil says he has “never looked back” and that his only regret is not starting sooner. 

Rhodri Harrison from Adferiad’s Communications Team sat down to have a chat with Neil about his time within the service.  

Rhodri: Hi Neil, thanks for speaking with us. Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your role? 

Neil: “My name is Neil Hussey, I’m 69 – turning 70 in July – and I’m an Appropriate Adult for Adferiad, supporting vulnerable individuals while they’re in custody. 

“No two days are the same, and my approach has always been to speak to people on a personal level and make sure they fully understand the process.” 

Rhodri: Why do you think Adferiad’s support, and the role of the Appropriate Adult, matter for people in custody? 

Neil: “Some people aren’t always welcoming to us at first, but we’re there to assist vulnerable individuals and help them understand what’s being asked of them. 

“I’ve supported people who struggle to read or write – those individuals are especially vulnerable, and our role is to ensure they’re not disadvantaged. 

“Appropriate Adults are completely independent of the police, and many people open up to us once they realise we’re there for them.” 

Rhodri: You’ve been a vital part of the service for nearly 15 years. How do you reflect on your time in the role? 

Neil: “I had a very good mentor when I started: Darren O’Connell, who’s no longer with the service – and he basically held my hand and guided me into the role. 

“I try to offer that same support to anyone new thinking about becoming an Appropriate Adult. It’s valuable to have someone to talk to about tough cases. 

“The hardest part is the uncertainty of not knowing when the next call will come in. I’ve worked every Christmas Day, but I can honestly say I haven’t looked back since the first day I started. 

“Appropriate Adults are the ‘safety valve’ that ensures people in custody have their rights protected and the process is understood. People are at the heart of this role, and our priority is putting them first.” 

Rhodri: You’ve seen the service evolve over time. What changes have stood out most to you? 

Neil: “There’s much more awareness now around supporting neurodiverse individuals – that’s been one of the biggest changes. 

“But I think there’s still more to be done for people who can’t read or write. Appropriate Adults are vital in helping them understand what’s happening and make sure they aren’t left behind. 

“Even though the police refer to us, we’re completely independent from them. My job is to support that person and help them understand the process. 

“I’ve had positive feedback from people who were reluctant at first but later thanked me for helping them through it. It’s very rewarding to know I’ve made a difference to someone in a vulnerable position.” 

In February 2017, the definition of a ‘vulnerable person’ under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (1984) underwent significant changes, adding more detailed guidelines around the definition. Included within those changes was: 

• Replacement of “Mentally Vulnerable” 

• Functional Definition – considering a person ‘vulnerable’ if they have difficulty understanding or communicating 

•  Proactive Identification – the revisions introduced a proactive requirement for the police to “take reasonable steps” to identify and record factors indicating a person may be vulnerable and require an AA. 

• Specific factors – the updated codes describe factors for the police to examine for, such as being highly suggestible, eager to please, becoming easily confused, or having difficulty understanding questions.  

• 17-year-olds Treated as Children – Anyone identified as under 18, is treated as a juvenile, strengthening protections for 17-year-olds. 

Neil’s dedication over the past 15 years highlights the essential role Appropriate Adults play in safeguarding the rights and welfare of vulnerable individuals in custody. His compassion and commitment reflect Adferiad’s mission – ensuring that everyone receives fair and understanding support when they need it most.