Find out what to do if a child or young person you are working with gets into trouble and gets arrested
If a child or young person you are working with gets into trouble and gets arrested, there are different ways they may be dealt with. It all depends on:
We at Torbay Youth Justice Service are here to help them stop committing offences. Contact us if you need any advice or guidance about your role and responsibility for those you are working with.
‘Child’ or ‘Young person’? In the eyes of the law all people under the age of 18 years are dealt with as ‘children’. The laws followed are different from adults. When supporting them, remember that understanding offences isn't just about age. This affects how we can support them.
If a child or young person is arrested, they will normally be taken to the nearest police station. If they are under 17 years old, they the right to have an appropriate adult with them at the police station. An appropriate adult must be over 18 years of age. This could be a:
If no one is available, we have an Appropriate Adult service. We will provide someone to attend, the police will arrange this. If they are under 18 the police must try to contact their parents or carers.
The police will interview the child or young person. This should always be with a solicitor for the young person present. They must have an opportunity to speak with the young person first. If they do not have a solicitor, the police will arrange the appointment of a duty solicitor.
A short film explaining what happens if a young person is arrested and taken to the police station.