Police interviews in Scotland – use of appropriate adults
Journal of Intellectual Disabilities and Offending Behaviour
ISSN: 2050-8824
Article publication date: 14 December 2015
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to show the development of Appropriate Adult services in Scotland over the past nine years and considers how this differs from the rest of the UK.
Design/methodology/approach
New analysis of existing statistical information is provided to show pattern of demand, type of interview, nature of mental disorder involved and regional differences.
Findings
Growth in demand for services is identified for both suspect and witness interviews, with people with learning disabilities most frequently receiving support. There is significant variation in the pattern of referrals across Scotland.
Practical implications
The results reflect heightened awareness amongst police officers of the need for Appropriate Adults, but there should be examination of the different types of provision to promote equity of service.
Originality/value
This is the first time that these figures have been collated and subject to analysis. They provide comparative information within Scotland that is also of relevance to the rest of the UK.
Keywords
Citation
Bowden, K. and Wilson, I. (2015), "Police interviews in Scotland – use of appropriate adults", Journal of Intellectual Disabilities and Offending Behaviour, Vol. 6 No. 3/4, pp. 195-203. https://doi.org/10.1108/JIDOB-08-2015-0023
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited