What is the Northumbria Local Appropriate Adult Scheme?
The Northumbria Local Appropriate Adult Scheme (NLAAS) is the first of its kind in England, giving University of Sunderland students the chance to volunteer as appropriate adults while studying. Set up by our Criminology team, the scheme tackles a regional shortage and offers unique experience working with the police.
Volunteers are trained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) and support vulnerable adults in custody – explaining processes, rights, and entitlements. The aim is to provide 24/7 on-call coverage across four custody suites, helping you build valuable foundational knowledge for the role.
You can also take part in a placement module, and we’ll support you in tailoring the experience to suit your goals and development.
"I enjoyed everything about volunteering on the Scheme as I learnt a lot from the officers I worked with, such as how to deal with certain situations and how they collect samples of evidence from detainees. All the teams I’ve worked with, including the current NLAAS team, are all lovely people, and we always help each other out if we don’t understand something." Rosealina, BSc (Hons) Criminology graduate and previous volunteer.
What is an appropriate adult?
Under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, anyone in police custody identified as vulnerable must have a trained appropriate adult to ensure fair treatment. This includes offering advice, emotional support, and helping them understand their rights and the investigation process.
As a volunteer, you'll be trained to actively support this role, working with a team to provide coverage across local stations. Before training, you’ll need to understand the responsibilities involved. This is a great opportunity to build skills and experience in the criminal justice sector.
Find out more about what it means to be an appropriate adult(opens in new tab).
What are the benefits of volunteering as an appropriate adult?
Volunteering as an appropriate adult is a great way to boost your CV, explore different roles and sectors, and discover what career path might suit you. You'll develop key professional skills like communication, liaising with others, and many more.
Training follows national standards set by the National Appropriate Adult Network and approved by ADASS, the Youth Justice Board, and the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.
As a volunteer, you can also work towards an accredited qualification – giving you official recognition, supporting your personal development, and helping you stand out to future employers.
"Joining NLAAS has allowed me to improve my communication skills in relation to navigating sensitive conversations with individuals in stressful situations. I’ve gained so much knowledge from the officers in terms of future career pathways too. Since completing my placement hours, I’ve continued to volunteer because I find the scheme so fulfilling." Joshua, BSc (Hons) Criminology graduate and previous volunteer.
How can I apply?
Once you've enrolled on your chosen course, you’ll see the scheme advertised. Volunteering with the Northumbria Appropriate Adult Scheme is open to all Social Sciences students, and students from other courses may also be considered depending on their degree.
We recruit throughout the year and are looking for students interested in starting a career in the criminal justice sector – especially those passionate about supporting vulnerable people. If you're eager to learn, we’ll provide the training and support to help you grow in the role.
Contact us
The Local Appropriate Adult Scheme is unique, as all of our volunteers are students here at the University. You'll work alongside fellow students and scheme management, and be part of the scheme's direction and future opportunities. The team are also proud members of the National Appropriate Adult Network(opens in new tab).
To find out more information, please get in touch with Sarah Connelly (Scheme Manager) or Lauren Naisby (Scheme Coordinator).