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Children and vulnerable adults detained by police in Bradford are facing longer waits for support because of a shortage of Appropriate Adults across West Yorkshire.
The Appropriate Adult Service (TAAS), which provides independent assistance to people in custody who may struggle to understand the process or protect their rights, says requests for callouts have risen by more than 20% between 2022 and 2025.
To help meet these demands the organisation is now recruiting across West Yorkshire, including in Bradford.
Simon Dowe, chief operating officer at TAAS, said: "When a frightened 14-year-old enters custody alone, an Appropriate Adult may be the only independent support they have.
"Many of those we see have had difficult or chaotic childhoods, or may have been groomed or pressured into committing crime, and don’t have family or friends who can step in to offer support.
"Right now, we’re looking for people who think they could fill that role, offering a calm, reassuring presence when it’s needed the most."
The role is a legal safeguard designed to protect the rights, welfare, and wellbeing of children and vulnerable adults during police interviews.
Appropriate Adults are fully trained in safeguarding, legal rights in custody, and mental health awareness.
The position is flexible, with people able to commit to as little as one shift per week.
People from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, particularly those with experience in care or the criminal justice system.
The service is also suitable for graduates in criminology and social sciences, or those interested in policing, legal services, probation, and youth or children’s social care.
Bennise, an Appropriate Adult, shared why she took on the role.
She said: "I’ve always been interested in supporting young people from difficult backgrounds and I’ve done a lot of work in youth clubs locally.
"When I heard about the Appropriate Adult role and how flexible it was, it felt like the perfect job, giving me extra income and being able to give back in our community, but also making me feel like I was making a difference.
"Whether it’s a young person, or vulnerable adult with learning difficulties, I know I can support & help explain what’s happening with a non-judgemental attitude to help them through a difficult time."
More details about the role are available at www.theappropriateadultservice.org.uk.