'Appropriate adults' are not being provided for many vulnerable people who are detained or questioned by police in custody, according to a new report by the National Appropriate Adult Network.
Appropriate adults assist with the rights and welfare of vulnerable people. The report found inadequate practices for identifying vulnerable people, and limited availability of appropriate adults for those who need them. Headway welcomes the report and its recommendations.
It is important that people working in the criminal justice system, particularly those who are in direct contact with people detained or questioned by the police, have a sound working knowledge and understanding of the cognitive, emotional and behavioural effects of brain injury. This will assist police officers and other front-line staff in safely and effectively carrying out their duties, while increasing the accessibility of appropriate support and advice for vulnerable adults.
Back