VOLUNTEERS are needed to hand themselves in to the police and spend time in the cells.

Greater Manchester Police Authority is seeking volunteers to provide help to vulnerable people who are in police custody. These could be juveniles aged between 12 and 16, or adults with learning difficulties or mental health problems.

Under the 'Appropriate Adult' scheme, volunteers make themselves available to go to police stations and help a vulnerable person to understand their rights and what is happening to them while they are in custody. The support they provide can help that person to be released from custody more quickly.

Councillor Sam Cohen, who represents Bury Council on the police authority, said: "Ideally a volunteer will have good communication skills or experience of working with disadvantaged people.

"However, the most important qualifications are a dedication to helping others and the ability to make some time available to take on this challenging and rewarding voluntary role. We provide training and support to our volunteers and pay expenses."

More information about the 'Appropriate Adult' scheme can be obtained by phoning 0161 909 6524 or e-mailing Drop a line...info@gmpa.gov.uk.