Being arrested can feel frightening and overwhelming, especially if it is your first experience with the police. Knowing your rights and what to expect can help you feel more prepared. Try to stay calm and remember that you are entitled to support throughout the process.
If you are arrested, the police will normally take you to a police station. If you are under 18, the police should try to contact your parent, carer or another appropriate adult. An appropriate adult is there to support your welfare and help you understand what is happening. This might be a parent or carer, or, if they are unavailable or unsuitable, another appropriate adult such as someone from the Youth Justice Service.
What should I do?
- Stay calm and don’t resist. Trying to fight back, escape or physically resist the police can make the situation more difficult and may result in further offences.
- Ask for a solicitor as soon as possible. You have the right to free legal advice at the police station. A solicitor can explain your rights, advise you about the police investigation and make sure you are treated fairly.
- Ask for an appropriate adult. If you are under 18, you have the right to have an appropriate adult with you during important parts of the process. They are there to support you, not to judge you.
- Remember that you can speak privately with your appropriate adult. You can also speak privately with your solicitor. Your appropriate adult can usually be present when you speak with your solicitor, but you can ask to speak to your legal adviser privately.
- You have a right to understand what is happening. If you don’t understand something the police, solicitor or appropriate adult says, ask them to explain it again in a way you understand.
- Don’t guess or make things up. Your solicitor can advise you about whether and how you should answer questions. It is important to listen to their advice before being interviewed.
What about answering questions?
You do not have to make decisions about an interview on your own. Ask for a solicitor before answering questions and follow their legal advice. Your solicitor can explain your right to silence and any potential consequences of answering or not answering particular questions.
It is therefore safer to avoid giving detailed answers or making statements about what happened before you have received legal advice. You should provide basic identifying information when required, such as your name, address and date of birth.
Being arrested does not mean you have been found guilty of a crime. You have rights, including access to free legal advice and appropriate adult support if you are under 18. If you’re unsure what to do, ask for a solicitor and let them guide you through the process.
Rights in custody
Once you arrive at the police station, a custody officer should explain your rights and what is happening. If you don’t understand something, you can ask them to explain it again. If you’re under 18, you have additional protections because the police should take your age and welfare into account. You should be aware of the following:
- You can tell someone where you are. You have the right to ask the police to contact someone to let them know that you have been arrested and where you are being held.
- You can ask to see your rights. You can ask to read the rules that the police have to follow, as well as a written notice explaining your rights. If you don’t understand English well, you can ask for this information to be provided in a language you understand.
- You will usually be searched. The police may search you and your belongings, and your possessions may be kept safely while you are in custody.
- If you are under 18, you should not normally be placed in a cell if there is a safe alternative. You must not be placed in a cell with an adult.
- Tell staff if you need something. Let a member of staff know if you need food, water, medication, medical attention or to use the toilet. Don’t be afraid to ask for help with your basic needs.
- You can ask for appropriate care. If you are a girl or young woman, you should be able to request a female member of staff for certain aspects of your care where appropriate.
- You should have access to appropriate activities. You may be allowed activities such as reading, drawing or writing while in custody, unless the police have a specific reason to restrict this because of safety or wellbeing concerns.
- You have the right to legal advice. You can ask for a solicitor, and legal advice at the police station is free. If you’re under 18, your appropriate adult should also support you through the process.
How long can the police keep you?
The amount of time the police can keep you in custody depends on the circumstances and the offence being investigated. In many cases, the police can hold someone for up to 24 hours before they must charge them or release them. For certain serious offences, a senior officer or a court may authorise a longer period, potentially up to 36 or 96 hours. Different rules apply to arrests under terrorism legislation.
If you’re unsure about your rights, ask your solicitor or appropriate adult. You don’t have to navigate the police station process by yourself, and asking questions about your rights is completely okay.
Release on bail
You may be released on bail after being arrested. Bail means you are released from police custody while the investigation or court process continues. Depending on your circumstances, there may be conditions that you need to follow. Conditional bail may be used when the police believe restrictions are needed to manage risks, such as the possibility of you committing another offence, intimidating witnesses, interfering with the investigation or failing to attend court.
Conditions might include:
- Not contacting a particular person.
- Not going to a particular place.
- Following a curfew.
- Staying at a particular address.
- Reporting to a police station at certain times.
It is important to understand and follow any bail conditions. Breaking them can have consequences and may result in you being arrested again.
You may also be released on police bail while the investigation continues, including when the police do not currently have enough evidence to charge you. You do not have to pay money to be released on police bail, but you may be required to return to the police station for further questioning or when the police need you.
If you are unsure what your bail conditions mean, ask your solicitor or appropriate adult to explain them. Make sure you know exactly what you are and are not allowed to do before leaving the police station.
Release under investigation
Being Released Under Investigation (RUI) means that you have been arrested but have not been charged with a crime. You are released from police custody while the police continue investigating what happened.
Unlike conditional bail, RUI normally does not involve conditions or restrictions that you have to follow. This means you can generally return home and continue with your usual activities. However, the investigation is still ongoing, and the police may contact you again if they need further information or decide that there is enough evidence to charge you.
Being released under investigation does not mean that you have been found guilty or that you will definitely be charged. The police may ultimately take no further action, or they may decide to charge you if the investigation provides enough evidence.
If the police contact you again, you still have the right to legal advice. Speak to a solicitor before agreeing to an interview or making decisions about the investigation.
Giving samples
If you are arrested, the police may need to collect photographs, fingerprints or other samples as part of their investigation. There are different rules about what the police can take without your permission and what requires additional authorisation.
The police do not usually need your permission to:
- Take your photograph.
- Take your fingerprints.
- Take a DNA sample, such as a mouth swab or a sample of hair with the root attached.
- Take skin or surface samples from your hands or arms.
For some types of samples, the police do need additional authority and your consent, depending on the circumstances. This can include things such as blood or urine samples and dental impressions. There are exceptions to these rules, including situations involving suspected drink or drug driving, where different powers apply.
If you are under 18, your appropriate adult should be with you when the police collect samples. Your appropriate adult is there to support you and help you understand what is happening.
If you’re unsure whether the police are allowed to take a particular sample, ask your solicitor or appropriate adult to explain what is happening and why. You have the right to understand what is being done to you while you are in custody.
Complaining about police treatment
If you feel that you have been treated unfairly, disrespectfully or inappropriately by the police, you have the right to make a complaint. You can contact the police force directly or call 101 to find out how to make a complaint.
You can also make a complaint through the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The IOPC is independent from the police and investigates or oversees complaints about the police in certain circumstances.
If you’re unsure about your rights or what to do next, you can also contact Citizens Advice for information and guidance. If you are under 18, you may also want to speak to a trusted adult, appropriate adult or solicitor who can help you understand your options.
Your mental health
How might being arrested affect your mental health?
Being arrested or held by the police can be frightening, confusing and overwhelming, particularly if it is your first experience with the police. You might feel shocked, scared, angry, embarrassed or unsure about what is going to happen next. Being separated from people you know, waiting to be questioned or staying somewhere unfamiliar can make these feelings stronger. Some young people may also experience physical symptoms of stress, such as feeling shaky, sick, dizzy or finding it difficult to think clearly. These reactions don’t mean that you are weak or that you have done something wrong – they can be a normal response to a stressful situation.
Afterwards, you might continue to think about what happened or feel worried about being judged by other people, what will happen next, or whether it could affect your education, relationships or future. You might feel angry with yourself or others, have trouble sleeping, become more withdrawn or notice changes in your mood. Everyone responds differently, and some people may not feel the impact until later. If the experience is continuing to affect your mental health, talk to someone you trust or seek professional support. You deserve support with how the experience has affected you, regardless of the circumstances that led to your arrest.
Being arrested can also create a strong sense of losing control. You may have decisions being made about you, be told where you need to go or what you need to do, and have limited control over when you can leave. This can be especially difficult if you already find unfamiliar environments, authority figures or unexpected changes stressful. Feeling overwhelmed in this situation doesn’t mean you have done anything wrong. You may find yourself constantly thinking about possible consequences, replaying what happened or imagining the worst-case scenario. If you’re waiting for further questioning, a court date or a decision about what happens next, this uncertainty can make it difficult to concentrate on normal life. Try to focus on what you know right now and seek reliable information from your solicitor, appropriate adult or another trusted professional rather than relying on rumours or social media.
How can I look after my mental health?
After being arrested or held by the police, it can take some time for your mind and body to come down from the stress of what happened. Try to give yourself time to process the experience rather than expecting yourself to immediately feel normal. Talking to someone you trust about what happened can help, particularly if you are feeling frightened, embarrassed, angry or worried about what might happen next. You don’t have to talk about details you’re not comfortable sharing.
It can also help to focus on what you can control. If you’re worried about what happens next, speak to your solicitor or another appropriate professional for accurate information rather than trying to work everything out from things you see online. Writing down your questions can make it easier to remember what you want to ask. Try to take things one step at a time rather than imagining every possible outcome.
Look after your basic needs, especially if you’ve been through a stressful experience. Try to eat regularly, drink enough water, get some sleep and do things that help you feel calm and safe. Spending time with people you trust, listening to music, playing games, exercising or getting outside can help you reconnect with your normal routine.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try grounding or calming techniques. Slow your breathing, notice what you can see and hear around you, or focus on physical sensations such as your feet on the floor. Remind yourself that the arrest has happened and that you are now in the present moment. You don’t need to solve everything immediately.
If you notice that you’re avoiding people, struggling to sleep, having panic attacks, feeling persistently low or replaying what happened, consider speaking to a GP, counsellor or mental health professional. You can get support even if you aren’t sure whether what you’re experiencing is “serious enough”. If you are having thoughts about hurting yourself or ending your life, tell someone immediately and seek urgent support.
Most importantly, don’t let being arrested become your whole identity. You may have made a mistake, been accused of something, or found yourself in a situation that you didn’t expect. Whatever the circumstances, what happened does not mean you are a bad person or that your future is already decided.
How to support a loved one
Finding out that someone you care about has been arrested can bring up lots of feelings for you too. You might feel worried, angry, shocked, confused or disappointed, or you might not know what to say. Try to remember that being arrested can be a frightening and stressful experience for a young person, even if you do not agree with what happened or are unsure about the circumstances.
Start by listening without immediately judging, blaming or making assumptions. You do not need to decide whether they are right or wrong, investigate what happened or expect them to explain everything. You could say, “I’m here if you want to talk” or “How are you feeling about everything?” Give them space if they do not want to talk straight away and let them decide how much they feel comfortable sharing.
Try to focus on how they are feeling as well as what has happened. They might be frightened about what happens next, embarrassed about other people finding out, angry about the situation or worried about how it could affect school, work, relationships or their future. You don’t have to have all the answers. Sometimes simply listening and letting them know they are not alone can be helpful.
You can also offer practical support. Depending on the situation, this could mean helping them get home safely, making sure they have food and somewhere safe to stay, helping them remember appointments or important information, or being available to talk. If they are dealing with the police or criminal justice system, encourage them to speak to their solicitor, appropriate adult or another suitable professional about legal questions rather than trying to give legal advice yourself.
Try not to make the arrest the only thing you talk about. Doing ordinary things together can help them reconnect with their normal life and have a break from worrying about what might happen next. Watching something, going for a walk, playing a game, eating together, listening to music or talking about everyday things can all help.
If they are experiencing ongoing anxiety, low mood, difficulty sleeping, panic, withdrawing from others or repeatedly thinking about what happened, encourage them to speak to someone they trust or a GP, mental health professional, youth worker or other trusted adult. If they are having thoughts about hurting themselves or ending their life, take this seriously and help them access urgent support.
Remember that supporting someone does not mean approving of their behaviour or agreeing with everything that happened. You can care about them while still recognising that they may need to take responsibility for their actions. Avoid shaming or labelling them as a “bad person”, as this is unlikely to help them make positive changes.
You may have your own feelings about what has happened, and supporting someone through a difficult situation can be emotionally draining. You do not have to manage everything for them. Keep appropriate boundaries, talk to someone you trust if you are struggling and remember that you can support someone without being responsible for fixing the situation.
Helplines
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice is a charity providing free, confidential advice and support on issues including money, debt, benefits, housing, work, family problems, consumer rights and legal matters.
Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Online chat: 9 am–5 pm, Monday–Friday
Phone (England): 0800 144 8848
Opening times (England): 9 am–5 pm, Monday–Friday; opening times can differ depending on where you live. Lines are closed on weekends and bank holidays.
Phone (Wales): 0800 702 2020
Opening times (Wales): 8am-7pm Monday to Friday and 9am-1pm Saturdays. Lines are closed on weekends and bank holidays.
Youth Justice Legal Centre
Youth Justice Legal Centre (YJLC) is an organisation providing specialist legal information, advice and support about youth justice law. They support children, young people, families and professionals with issues including being arrested, going to court, police powers, bail, criminal allegations and children’s rights within the criminal justice system.
Website: www.yjlc.uk
YJLC Aim to respond to email enquiries within 3 working days
Just for Kids Law
Just for Kids Law is a charity providing free legal advice, representation and advocacy for children and young people aged 10-25. They cover issues including police and criminal justice, court proceedings, care and children’s rights.
Phone: 020 3174 2279
Opening times: 9:30 am–5:30 pm, Monday–Friday
Emergency 24-hour Crime Contact Line: 07886 755321
Email: contact@justforkidslaw.org
Website: www.justforkidslaw.org
National Appropriate Adult Network
The National Appropriate Adult Network (NAAN) is a charity supporting appropriate adult services in England and Wales. They provide information, guidance and resources about appropriate adults, who safeguard the rights and welfare of children and vulnerable adults who are detained or questioned by the police.
Email: admin@appropriateadult.org.uk
Website: www.appropriateadult.org.uk
IOPC
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is the police complaints watchdog for England and Wales. They investigate the most serious complaints and conduct matters involving the police and oversee the police complaints system.
Phone: 0300 020 0096
Opening times: 10 am–4 pm, Monday–Friday
Email: enquiries@policeconduct.gov.uk
Website: www.policeconduct.gov.uk
Victim Support
Victim Support is an independent charity providing free, confidential support for people affected by crime and traumatic incidents. They support people affected by issues including bullying, abuse, sexual violence, domestic abuse, hate crime and other crimes.
Phone: 0808 1689 111
Opening times: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Live chat: Available 24 hours a day
Website: www.victimsupport.org.uk
Samaritans
Samaritans is a charity providing emotional support to anyone who is struggling to cope or needs someone to talk to. They are there for people experiencing all sorts of difficulties, including stress, anxiety, loneliness, relationship or family problems, bereavement, feeling overwhelmed and concerns about mental health or suicide.
Phone: 116 123
Opening times: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
Website: http://www.samaritans.org
Childline
Childline is a free service for young people to talk to a counsellor about anything. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Childline is available to anybody who is 18 years old or younger.
Phone: 0800 1111
Opening times: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
You can also find helpful resources, speak to a counsellor online or send a message on their site.
Website: www.childline.org.uk
For adults concerned about a child, the NSPCC can be contacted
NSPCC
NSPCC is a children’s charity that works to protect children and prevent abuse and neglect. They provide support and advice for adults about child abuse, neglect, child safety, online safety and children’s mental and emotional wellbeing.
Phone: 0808 800 5000
Opening times: 10 am–4 pm, Monday–Friday
Email: help@nspcc.org.uk
Email opening times: 11 am–4 pm, 7 days a week
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk
YoungMinds
YoungMinds is a national charity supporting the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people. They provide information, advice and support for parents and carers who are concerned about a young person’s mental health, and help people understand mental health difficulties, find appropriate support and access useful resources. Their Parents Helpline can provide information, advice, emotional support and signposting to other services.
Parent helpline: 0808 802 5544 (9:30 am – 4 pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, and from 9:30 am – 6 pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
Email: parents@youngminds.org.uk
Webchat: https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/parents-helpline/
Support For Us 