Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind has been recognised by Cleveland Police for raising awareness of mental health during the custodial process.
The charity’s Appropriate Adult Service received the Working in Partnership award at Cleveland Police’s annual Star Awards earlier this month.
The service provides a volunteer to accompany vulnerable people, who may have mental health issues, through the custodial process. The volunteer is trained to offer support and help those in police care understand their rights in what can be a very stressful situation.
Sarah Ross, Service Manager from Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind, said: “We want to say a massive thank you to all our volunteers who are providing such a valuable service to people in custody.
“We are also very grateful for the continued support that we receive from Cleveland Police. This award highlights how seriously they consider the needs of people living with mental health issues and we really value the positive way that we work together.”
Joanne Solomon, Appropriate Adult volunteer, said: “Being an appropriate adult is such a rewarding experience.
“Even the little things such as a thanks from the police officer or the service user you are helping brightens your day and makes you feel like you are having a positive impact on someone’s day.”
Iain Spittal, Chief Constable of Cleveland Police, said: “It was an honour to present the ‘Working in Partnership Award’ to a team who have dedicated themselves to an important piece of work meaning that there is now round the clock assistance for vulnerable members of the community who need it whilst in our custody.
“This award is a thank you to those who volunteer their time to support us with this and a thank you to the staff who made it happen.”
To find out more about the Appropriate Adult Service, visit www.middlesbroughandstocktonmind.org.uk.