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Appropriate Adult Volunteer
The Appropriate Adult Scheme for Persons with Mental Disabilities (AAPMD) provides assistance to persons with intellectual disabilities (ID), autism spectrum disorders (ASD) or mental health conditions who are required to attend interviews with Investigation Officers at law enforcement agencies. Trained volunteers—known as Appropriate Adults—offer assistance throughout these interviews to ensure clear communication and to safeguard the individual’s rights and well-being.
The Role of an Appropriate Adult Volunteer
As an Appropriate Adult (AA) volunteer, you do not give legal advice, but your support is invaluable. You act as a bridge between the Investigation Officer (IO) and the defendant, victim or witness in question, helping both sides communicate more clearly and effectively.
Your neutral presence helps reduce the risk of misunderstanding, especially for persons with mental disabilities, by helping them understand the questions being asked and ensuring that their responses are accurately conveyed and understood. This support enhances both the reliability and credibility of the statements recorded.
Who Can Be an AA Volunteer?
There are currently over 370 dedicated AA volunteers. We welcome individuals from all walks of life—including allied health professionals, special education teachers, lawyers and former Singapore Police Force (SPF)/Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) officers—to join us in
Eligibility Criteria
- Individuals aged 21 and above
- Willing to be activated at any hour of the day
- Passionate about helping persons with ASD-ID or mental health conditions
- Patient, level-headed and possess sound judgment and reasoning skills
All volunteers are required to attend a mandatory one-day training session and undergo screening by the SPF and CNB. Successful applicants will be notified of the training details at least one month in advance.
To prevent any conflict of interest, lawyers who respond to an activation must sign an undertaking to confirm that they—and the firm that they are associated with—will not represent the individual as defence counsel in the same case.
How MINDS Supports Volunteers
- Training: Comprehensive sessions to equip volunteers with essential skills and knowledge.
- Practical Resources: Access to best practices and tools to effectively support individuals with mental disabilities.
- Ongoing Support for Volunteers: Support from AAPMD staff to address queries and offer guidance.
- Volunteer Appreciation: Invitation to events that celebrate and acknowledge their contributions.
