Vulnerable Clients at the Police Station: Note-Taking Essentials

Identifying vulnerability early

Vulnerability may be apparent from the custody record, DSCC referral, client's presentation, or family information. Record what you knew and when — and any steps taken to obtain further information (GP records, care coordinator contact, liaison and diversion referral).

If you considered an appropriate adult for an adult detainee, or an intermediary for interview, record that assessment even if the request was refused or unavailable.

Consultation: capacity and understanding

Your note should demonstrate that you assessed whether the client understood the caution, disclosure, and advice. This is not a medical capacity assessment, but a practical record of understanding — did the client follow the conversation, ask questions, need breaks, or require simplified language?

• Observations on presentation — anxiety, confusion, fatigue, intoxication
• Steps taken to ensure understanding of advice
• Whether an appropriate adult or supporter was involved
• Requests for healthcare professional or psychiatric assessment
• Any Code C welfare or review issues raised

Interview adjustments

Record any adjustments — frequent breaks, simplified questions from officers, your interventions when questions were unfair given the client's vulnerability. These entries may support exclusion applications or abuse of process arguments. If an interview did not proceed because of fitness concerns, say so clearly and record what happened next.

Post-interview and handover

Vulnerable clients may need clearer follow-up advice on bail compliance, appointments, and support services. Record what was explained and whether anyone else (appropriate adult, carer) was present for that advice.

Should I record mental health diagnoses in the attendance note?

Record what is relevant to the attendance — what the client told you, what appeared in disclosure or custody records, and how it affected advice and interview planning. Avoid speculative diagnoses. Focus on observable presentation and steps taken to safeguard fairness.

What if the client is unfit to be interviewed?

Record your concerns, any medical assessment requested or received, and whether interview proceeded or was postponed. Note representations to the custody officer and the outcome. This is high-risk file content — contemporaneous detail matters.

Does vulnerability increase escape fee likelihood?

Complex cases often take longer — multiple consultations, liaison, healthcare involvement, and lengthy interviews. Accurate time recording by activity supports escape claims where thresholds are met. Vulnerability itself does not change the fee scheme.