Appropriate Adult Volunteer (YOT)

This role will allow you to support young people. To act as an Appropriate Adult in support of either a juvenile or a vulnerable adult detainee and to ensure that the detained person for whom you are acting understands what is happening to them and why.

The role will be an opportunity to help and support a vulnerable young person or vulnerable adult. It is a rewarding and challenging experience, making a positive contribution to young people’s lives· The volunteer role will be Working within a supportive, professional team·

The role of an AA is to safeguard the interests of children and adults who may be mentally vulnerable when they are suspected of a criminal offence, ensuring that they are able to participate effectively and are treated in a fair and just manner. 

AAs ensure that people who are being investigated in relation to their involvement, or otherwise, in an offence are: 

1. treated fairly with respect for their legal rights and welfare entitlements 

2. able to participate effectively in procedures related to the investigation and any period of detention 

3. All volunteers should be aware that as an AA they may potentially be subject to hearing sensitive information and descriptions of crime and harm

Somerset YOT provide the services of Appropriate Adults to young people and vulnerable adults across Somerset. The majority of the work takes place in the police custody suite in Bridgwater.  

We are currently accepting applications for this role which will be assessed in October.