Barnsley College University Centre student supports vulnerable people in police custody through volunteering role
A Barnsley College University Centre student is combining her passion for criminology with real-world experience, volunteering as an Appropriate Adult to support vulnerable individuals in police custody.
Hayley Howell, who is studying the Criminology, Communities and Criminal Justice Foundation Degree, balances her studies alongside self-employment and family life. Since starting her course, she has also taken on a volunteering role that is giving her valuable insight into the criminal justice system.
Hayley said: “Alongside my course, I still do a little bit of my self-employed nail work, but I’ve mostly transitioned into full-time learning. This year, I’ve also started volunteering, which has been a really important part of my journey.”
Supporting vulnerable people in custody
As an Appropriate Adult, Hayley plays a key role in safeguarding the rights of detainees who may struggle to understand the legal process. This includes young people and adults with conditions such as learning difficulties, ADHD or mental health challenges.
She explained: “My role is to support detained individuals while they’re in custody, making sure they understand their rights and are treated fairly. I’m there to check that interviews are conducted properly, that they’re not being pressured, and that they have access to legal representation.”
The role requires confidence and professionalism, particularly when working alongside police officers and legal professionals.
“One of the biggest things I’ve learned is being able to challenge people in higher-ranking roles if something isn’t right. That’s a key part of making sure the detainee is protected,” she added.
Turning interest into action
Hayley’s interest in criminology began at a young age, after applying to join the police at 18. Although she didn’t pursue that route at the time, her curiosity about crime and the justice system stayed with her.
It was only after speaking to a friend already on the course that she realised higher education in criminology was an option.
“I didn’t go to university straight after school, so I wasn’t aware of what courses were available. Once I found out about this one, I spoke to the course leader and decided to go for it. Now I’m in my second year and really enjoying it,” she said.
Her studies have helped shape her interests, particularly around youth crime and the treatment of young people within the justice system.
“I’ve found myself focusing a lot on youth crime. I was shocked to learn that the minimum age of criminal responsibility is just 10. It really made me think about whether children fully understand the consequences of their actions,” she explained.
Learning beyond the classroom
Hayley says her volunteering role and course content complement each other, giving her a deeper understanding of how theory applies in practice.
“The course and the role go hand in hand. What I learn in class, I see in real situations. I don’t think I could do the Appropriate Adult role as well without what I’ve learned on the course,” she said.
Her experiences in custody suites have also challenged some of her expectations.
“I expected things to be quite formal, but it’s not always like that. What stood out more is that everyone is just doing their job. The police officers have actually been really approachable,” she added.
Looking ahead
While Hayley is still exploring her long-term career options, her experiences have opened her eyes to a wide range of roles within the criminal justice system.
“I’m interested in working within the policing environment in some way. This role has shown me there are so many careers out there that people don’t always know about, including paid Appropriate Adult roles,” she said.
A supportive learning environment
Hayley credits her positive experience to the supportive teaching team and close-knit student group at Barnsley College University Centre.
“I couldn’t imagine doing this course anywhere else. The tutors are really passionate and supportive, and the group we’re in is small but really collaborative. I’d definitely recommend it.” she said.
Through her studies and volunteering, Hayley is not only developing her knowledge of criminology but also making a meaningful difference, supporting some of the most vulnerable individuals in society.
