Appropriate adult information
To act as an Appropriate Adult in support of either a child (between 10-17 years) or vulnerable adult within Code C of the Police, Powers and Procedures Act.
To ensure that the detained person, for whom you are acting as an Appropriate Adult, understands what is happening to them and why in order to be able to fully participate in their own custody experience.
The Department of Health and Social Care is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all volunteers to always have this at the centre of their role in line with all current legislation.
Key duties
- To fulfil the Appropriate Adult role at designated custody suites/nominated venues in line with Code C of the Police Powers and Procedures Act and within the scheme guidelines and from training
- To facilitate communication, and ensure rights and entitlements, processes and procedures are fully understood whilst in custody/nominated venue
- To ensure the individual is treated fairly during any interview under caution and any other procedure/process
- To discuss with the custody officer any concerns and requests arising from the call-out and bring the custody officer’s attention to any issue that needs to be dealt with
- To advise and inform the individual of the benefits of legal advice
- To accurately complete information as requested
- To attend initial, follow up and mandatory training as requested
- To attend voluntarily, meetings and supervisions (as required)
- To actively ensure that Safeguarding concerns are identified and reported in line with training
- To communicate effectively, engaging with a diverse range of individuals, situations, and circumstances
- Show a clear commitment to respect, valuing and celebrating diversity.
The above is not an exhaustive list of duties and you will be expected to perform different tasks as necessary to support the needs of each individual.
Essential criteria
- Over 18 years of age
- Complete and obtain a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) vetting check
- Own/have access to a mobile telephone and be prepared to receive text and telephone calls from the DHSC or Isle of Man Constabulary in relation to acting as an Appropriate Adult or information relating to meetings or training
- Attend virtual Interviews/ training / meetings when required using a microphone and webcam
- Possess basic IT skills, i.e. send and receive emails
- Be reliable, punctual, professional, polite, flexible and helpful at all times
- Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including over the telephone, in person and writing
- Be able, if required, to complete reports clearly, concisely and accurately in a timely manner
- Possess active listening skills
- Have the ability to recognise and respond to non-verbal communication
- Be able to demonstrate an objective, independent, impartial, non-judgmental attitude at all times
- Maintain confidentiality within context of the role
- Share a commitment to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children/vulnerable adults
Desirable criteria
- Paid or volunteer experience with children or vulnerable adults
- Be available for on-call/work outside of normal office hours including evenings, nights, weekends and bank holidays (including Easter, Christmas and New Year)
- An awareness of safeguarding policies and procedures or a willingness to attend training
- Be aware of the definition of equality, diversity and implicit bias whilst actively striving to recognise, confront and challenge discriminatory situations/practices if they arise
- Hold a full driving licence and own/have access to a vehicle if you do not live close to the Isle of Man Constabulary’s HQ at Dukes Avenue, Douglas
How to apply
If you are interested in becoming an Appropriate Adult volunteer, please email AAdultsinfo@gov.im or telephone +44 1624 695773 to discuss the voluntary role further.
