Hello all,
I am wondering if anyone has any experience of the Appropriate Adult scheme? I am considering applying to be either a paid/volunteer appropriate adult, as it looks like it would be invaluable experience (even if it is definitely a different job to that of a social worker).
I'm currently a final year History and Politics student who wants to gain experience before applying to the Social Work MA. Volunteering/work as an AA would be done (providing I was accepted) during the year out I intend to take between this degree and the MA.
What were your experiences of working as an AA?
Do you think this is a suitable position for somebody in my position and experience?
(my relevant experience: care assistant in a care home for elderly, disabled, dementia, Nightline volunteer for 2 years, student support worker for 1 year, various positions interacting with children and teenagers too)
Thank you greatly in advance
Hi Student1234,
I can't offer much experience, other than to say I have waited a year to start Appropriate Adult Training with Catch 22, and it is definitely valuable experience . I already volunteer for other charities, but at my uni interview I mentioned the Appropriate Adult service and they did agree that it was good experience. Hope that helps some, sorry couldn't offer more. I will try and repost once i've had a few call outs.
Good luck
Jo
Hi,
I am a 1st year social work student (BA Hons) and I volunteer as an appropriate adult. I feel that the AA volunteering is extremely valuable experience,
You get an insight into youths lives, what crimes they have been arrested for, what they have to say about it, also their motivations/ family dynamics, often many are repeat offenders and are known to the police already. When getting a call out for a vulnerable adult I feel your past experience will be useful and possibly help prepare you for any situations that may arise. On the whole most people have been ok with me being there and thanked me, but you have to be prepared for some hostility, as several adults have made it clear that they do not want me ( but the police have insisted an AA be present) .
As an AA you are there only to provide support to the detainee and make sure they understand, you do not discuss the case at all, and MUST Inform the police officers if any disclosure regarding the case is made ( which was not the case in the tv programme Appropriate Adult, about Fred West, which wasn't a very accurate portrayal of the service now, although I can't comment about how it used to be).
Oh and also I have found that you get a good insight into the police station, the officers jargon, procedures, how they work etc, the police officers always seem very friendly and accomadating.
I hope this has been helpful? Feel free to message me with any particular questions you at have.
Good luck with what you decide, and enjoy!
You will get an insight into the workings of the police and little else. Police take a certain delight in making you wait longer than you need to and there is a bit of transference, by the police, from the offender to the AA. (Goes without saying there are exceptions.)
You are made to feel you are not in the clique and are seen as less important than you think you are. After your first time you will feel surprised at how chummy everyone is, including the relationship between law keepers and breakers. Don't be fooled by this, it makes you drop your guard.
I used to mix up the police station with the New Theatre in Cardiff, equally good performances in both establishments.
Prior to PACE and judges rules etc. It was all a bit chaotic with anyone performing the role, usually a parent or the duty solicitor.
Tis really no different now but people feel more comfortable when kids are convicted or people with additional needs are dealt with; as they can point to proper procedures being adhered to.
All a bit of a game really.
http://www.appropriateadult.org.uk/appropriate-adults
According to PACE, young people in custody must not be kept in 'cells', but 'custody suites'..........it's called a 'suite' and it's also 'en-suite', but......it's a cell.
The 16 years old is a minor so will need an appropriate adult to be present. This is usually their parent or a social worker. They will also have legal representation. I hope this helps. Good luck and best wishes. Whoops!! Bruce is right. The Police can arrest the minor, it is during the Police interview that the adults need to be present.