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Being questioned or interviewed at a police station

People who are deaf, hearing-impaired or who have speech difficulties

If you're deaf, have a hearing impairment or speech difficulties the police should arrange for an interpreter to be present. They should not interview you until the interpreter is present. They can interview you without an interpreter if a delay would result in a risk of harm to people, property, or evidence.

People who have a learning disability

The police should only interview someone who has a learning disability when a responsible person (referred to as an 'appropriate adult') is present. This person should not be employed by the police and should be experienced in dealing with people with learning disabilities. It could be a relative of the person who is interviewed or someone responsible for their care.

If you have a learning disability, the police should not interview you until a responsible person is present. They can interview you without an interpreter if a delay would result in a risk of harm to people, property, or evidence.

Right to medical treatment

If you're detained, you're entitled to a medical examination by a healthcare worker. This may be a paramedic, nurse or a police surgeon who is sometimes know as a Forensic Medical Examiner. You may also be examined by a general practitioner (GP) that you choose, if they are available. You may have to pay for this, however. This will be formally recorded.  

The police and mental health

The charity Mind have a useful factsheet relating to the police and mental health. This factsheet is available as a webpage and in PDF format on the Mind website.

Removing someone to a 'place of safety'

Part of the Mental Health Act 1983 (section 136) details removing a mentally ill person from a public place to a place of safety. It details police powers and the rights of someone in this position.

• Mental health and the police - Mind website Opens new window

• Police and removing someone to a 'place of safety'

Useful contacts

• Rights and obligations contacts