What we do

The Appropriate Adult Service supports vulnerable adults who have been detained or interviewed by the police and who may have difficulty understanding or participating effectively in the criminal justice process.

Who we support

The service supports adults who have been detained or interviewed by the police and who may have a mental health condition, learning disability, cognitive impairment, communication difficulty, or other vulnerability.

How we do it

Appropriate Adults safeguard the rights, welfare, and interests of vulnerable adults during police procedures. They help ensure that individuals understand what is happening, can communicate effectively, and are treated fairly throughout detention and interview processes. Appropriate Adults are independent of the police and do not provide legal advice.

Referral

Referrals are made directly by South Wales Police, Dyfed-Powys Police, and Gwent Police when a vulnerable adult is risk assessed and identified as requiring Appropriate Adult support. An Appropriate Adult is then allocated and attends the custody suite or interview location to provide assistance throughout the police process.