Appropriate Adult Service

If you are 16 or over and have a mental disorder, you may need extra help when speaking with the police. We provide trained Appropriate Adults who make sure you understand what is happening and can communicate clearly during police procedures. Police Scotland asks for this support, and we respond as soon as possible.

Who can get help

You may need an Appropriate Adult if you have:

• a mental health condition
• a learning disability
• autism, ADHD or similar conditions
• a brain injury

Appropriate Adults can only support people aged 16 or over. They do not assist in court.

When an Appropriate Adult is used

The police may ask for an Appropriate Adult when you are:

• being interviewed as a victim, witness or suspect
• taking part in other procedures such as searches, medical checks or identity parades

Other organisations, such as the British Transport Police or the Immigration Service, can also request this support.

What an Appropriate Adult does

We are there to help you:

• understand what is happening
• know your rights
• communicate clearly
• stay calm and comfortable
• take breaks if you feel overwhelmed

We may also suggest small changes to help communication, such as adjusting the room or pace of the conversation. After the interview, we give a short report to the police.

What we cannot do

We do not:

• tell you how to answer questions
• challenge the police on your behalf
• stay alone with you
• join private conversations with your lawyer

How the police decide if help is needed

The police decide when to request an Appropriate Adult. They may do this if you seem highly anxious, confused, struggle to answer questions, or have needed this support before. If they are unsure, they can ask simple background questions or speak with carers. A police doctor may also check if you are well enough to be interviewed.

Contact us

To request an Appropriate Adult call us on the number provided on this page. 
To share concerns or feedback you can also email us.