Young or vulnerable: appropriate adult

If you are under 18, or are a vulnerable adult, you have the right to have an appropriate adult with you at the police station.

An appropriate adult can be a parent, guardian, carer, or another suitable adult. In some cases, a professional appropriate adult may be used.

The appropriate adult is there to support you, ensure you understand what is happening, and help you communicate with the police. They are not a legal adviser.

You still have the right to free legal advice from a solicitor. The appropriate adult does not replace a solicitor.

If you are a parent or carer, you can ask the police which station or custody suite someone is at, and ask for the custody record number if provided.