Call for Youth Justice Volunteers

To support young people being interviewed by police

Hounslow Council is appealing for volunteers to help support vulnerable youngsters when they are being questioned by police in custody.

When a child or vulnerable adult is brought in to a police station, an “appropriate adult” is appointed to make sure that they are aware of their rights when interviewed by the police in connection with an offence.

Volunteers with an interest in youth justice are being offered the chance to gain valuable first-hand experience which has helped some pursue a career in this field later on.

Hounslow Youth Offending Service is looking for responsible and confident people over 21 to volunteer to be part of the scheme servicing Hounslow Police Station in Montague Road, Hounslow.

Training is provided and expenses are met by the service, while the police can often provide free parking for the appropriate adults while they are on duty.

Councillor Tom Bruce, Hounslow Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services, said:  “Safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable children is the highest priority for this council. The appropriate adults are there to make sure that after a child is arrested they are fully supported as necessary. Being arrested can be enormously distressing for young people, and an appropriate adult is there to support them through this difficult experience."

See Volunteering for Hounslow Youth Offending Service for further details.

July 6, 2015