What is the Northumbria Local Appropriate Adult Scheme?
The Northumbria Local Appropriate Adult Scheme (NLAAS) is the first of its kind in England. It gives our students the chance to volunteer as appropriate adults while studying. Set up by our Criminology team, the scheme addresses a regional shortage and offers unique experience working with the police.
Volunteers are trained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE). You'll support vulnerable adults in custody by explaining processes, rights, and entitlements. The aim is to provide 24/7 on-call coverage across four custody suites. This helps you build valuable foundational knowledge for the role.
You can also take part in a placement module. 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?
Anyone in police custody who is vulnerable must have a trained appropriate adult to ensure fair treatment. This is according to the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.
The role of an appropriate adult includes:
- Giving advice
- Emotional support
- Helping them understand their rights
- The investigation process.
As a volunteer, you’ll be trained to support this role. You’ll work with a team to provide coverage across local stations. Before training, you need to understand the responsibilities involved. This is a great way 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 explore different roles. This helps you to find out which career path suits you. You’ll also develop key professional skills, like communication and working with others.
Training follows national standards set by the National Appropriate Adult Network. Training is approved by:
- Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS)
- The Youth Justice Board
- The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.
As a volunteer, you can also work towards an accredited qualification for official recognition. This supports your personal development, boosts your CV and helps 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 course, you’ll see the scheme advertised. Volunteering with the Northumbria Appropriate Adult Scheme is open to all Social Sciences students. Students from other courses may also be considered, depending on their degree.
We recruit throughout the year. We're looking for students who want a career in the criminal justice sector. We're especially interested in those who care about supporting vulnerable people. If you are keen to learn, we will provide the training and support to help you develop in the role.
Contact us
The Local Appropriate Adult Scheme is unique. All our volunteers are students here at the University. If you volunteer, you'll work alongside fellow students and scheme management. You'll also 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(opens in new tab) (Scheme Manager) or Lauren Naisby(opens in new tab) (Scheme Coordinator).