If you’ve got an interest in seeing justice done and want to give something back, it could be an appropriate time for you to step forward.

‘Appropriate adult’ volunteers are now being recruited by the Hertfordshire Youth Justice team, with training due to start in February.

When young people under the age of 18 are arrested they are usually accompanied to the police station by a parent or carer to make sure they are supported and treated fairly.

But when a parent or carer can’t be there a trained volunteer is called in to make sure their rights and welfare are protected.

Anyone aged 18 or over can apply for one of the slots on the team, and once training is complete volunteers take their place on a rota.

Councillor Richard Roberts, Herts County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Appropriate adults are vital to the youth justice process. It’s important that we have enough appropriate adult volunteers on standby to safeguard the rights of young people taken into custody and ensure that offences are investigated quickly.

“This is a great opportunity for people interested in the needs of young people to contribute to their community. Volunteering with Hertfordshire Youth Justice and supporting young people can be highly rewarding.”

To find out more contact Pip Lake-Benson (Pip.Lake-Benson@hertfordshire.gov.uk, 07812 323213.