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Proxies, representatives and advocates:

Appropriate adult

Please note: In these descriptions of proxies, representatives and advocates, Q refers to the person whom the proxy, representative or advocate is supporting or representing. 

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I am at an early stage of developing this resource, so please bear with me as I work on it.

Purpose of the role

Safeguards the rights, entitlements and welfare of juveniles and vulnerable persons when detained/questioned by police

This role applies when

Q is a vulnerable adult

Applies in mental capacity situations?

Applies in mental health situations?

Applies in day-to-day situations?

Sometimes
Sometimes

Sometimes

Sometimes

Statutory definition of the role (if any)
Defined term
Source
Source_URL
Appropriate adult
Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, S.45ZA
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/60/section/45ZA
Vulnerable adult
Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, S.45ZA(8)
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/60/section/45ZA
The person in this role
The role involves

is professionally qualified to perform the role

Sometimes

Sometimes

speaking for/on behalf of Q

Yes

Yes

has a professional relationship with Q

Sometimes

Sometimes

acting in Q's best interests

Yes

Yes

has a personal relationship with Q

Sometimes

Sometimes

ensuring Q's understanding

Yes

Yes

is independent of the organisation(s) involved

4

Must be

being consulted about Q's health and welfare

Yes

has lived experience of Q's care and support needs

Occasionally

Occasionally

being consulted about Q's finances

Yes

making decisions about Q's health and welfare

Yes

managing Q's finances

Is the person formally appointed to this role?

How many people can perform this role at one time?

Are there any other criteria for appointment?

Who nominates/appoints them?

Must be

One

Relative or guardian
Or person with experience
Or any responsible adult not employed by police

Police

Is the appointment time limited?

Other comments

Duration of police interview

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