At Southwark, we pride oursevles in providing a supportive and confidence-building environment for all volunteers to thrive within. You would join our team of 50+ trained and experienced Appropriate Adult volunteers with access to ongoing training, support and supervision. Our commitment request from you is 2 shifts a month. Shifts are 09:00-17:00 and 17:00-23:00 every day of the year. Each month you sign up for 2 shifts; day/evening/weekday/weekend - whatever works best for you! We work across Southwark (Walworth & Peckham) and Lambeth (Brixton) police stations. We pay for all expenses and have the opportunity for you to complete a Level 2 qualification in Appropriate Adult work.
Public concern over the Maxwell Confait murder case in 1972 led Parliament, via a Royal Commission, to pass the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) and its Codes of Practice. PACE set out the rules and safeguards for policing in England and Wales including role of the Appropriate Adult (AA).
The principal intention of the AA safeguard was to reduce the risk of miscarriages of justice as a result of evidence being obtained from vulnerable suspects which, by virtue of their vulnerability, led to unsafe and unjust convictions.
Where the suspect is a child or vulnerable person, PACE requires the presence of an AA for many procedures. We believe everyone has the right to understand what happens to them during their police detention and they should be treated with dignity, equality and autonomy during this time.
Someone who is keen to work with and support vulnerable persons. Someone who is proactive and able to work in a demanding environment. Someone who feels confident to advocate on behalf of others.
We are one of only two Appropriate Adult volunteer services in London. We have been delivering our high-quality service for over 20 years which gives us a wealth of experience.
Our Opportunities
Appropriate Adult Volunteer service across Southwark & Lambeth