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Written question asked by Lord Bradley (Labour) on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 8 July 2026. It was answered by Lord Hanson of Flint (Labour) on Thursday, 9 July 2026 on behalf of the Home Office.

Criminal Proceedings: Appropriate Adults

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to ensure the financial stability and development of Appropriate Adult services across the criminal justice system in the next three years.

Answer

The Government recognises the important role that Appropriate Adults play in safeguarding the rights and welfare of children and vulnerable adults within the criminal justice system, ensuring they are treated fairly and able to participate effectively in police processes.

Appropriate Adult services are delivered locally through a range of partnership arrangements, including local authorities, police and crime commissioners and voluntary sector organisations, enabling provision to reflect local need and demand.

The Home Office provides grant funding to support Appropriate Adult services, including through funding to the National Appropriate Adult Network

The Government is committed to upholding the safeguards set out in the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and its Codes of Practice, which requires that children and vulnerable adults are supported by an Appropriate Adult during police interactions.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL1250
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Criminal proceedings Finance Appropriate adults
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk