Sova Sheffield and Doncaster Appropriate Adult Scheme

At the Sova Sheffield and Doncaster Appropriate Adult Scheme we find, train and supervise volunteer Appropriate Adults to support young people, aged 10-16, and vulnerable adults in Sheffield, and young people aged 10-17 in Doncaster when they are detained in police custody.

The job of the Appropriate Adult is to look after the best interests of the suspect ensuring they know and understand their rights and that the interview and any other police procedures go as smoothly as possible. The volunteers are there for young people and vulnerable adults, for example those with mental health problems or learning difficulties, who don’t have anyone else willing or able to be there for them. Having a trusted, independent person available for support at such a difficult time can make a huge difference to a young person or adult in need. We have volunteers available for duty 24 hours a day, every day of the year.  

The Sova Sheffield and Doncaster Appropriate Adult Scheme is funded by Sheffield Youth Offending Service and Doncaster Youth Offending Service. Our volunteers receive comprehensive training and supervision and are asked to commit to a minimum of 4 hours every week when they are available for Appropriate Adult duty.

We are not currently recruiting volunteers in Sheffield, but we are recruiting volunteers who live in or near to Doncaster, ideally within 10 miles. If you live in the Doncaster area and are interested in volunteering we would like to hear from you on the email below.

For more information about our work please contact [email protected]