Policing.uk
Appropriate adult
- Custody
A person who must be present during the custody process when the detainee is a juvenile (under 18) or a person who is mentally disordered or mentally vulnerable. The role is to safeguard the rights and welfare of the detainee, assist communication, and ensure that the detainee understands the process. An appropriate adult may be a parent, guardian, social worker, or trained volunteer.
In practice
An interview must not commence with a juvenile or vulnerable person until the appropriate adult is present, except in limited urgent circumstances. The appropriate adult is not there to act as a legal adviser. Where a solicitor is present, the appropriate adult and solicitor fulfil separate functions. Custody officers must identify vulnerability at the earliest opportunity.
Last updated 24 September 2026