That's where Chirnside Park resident Kevin Ritchie and other volunteers of the Youth Referral and Independent Person Program come in.

The law requires an adult be present during police interviews of people under 18 so, when a parent or guardian is unavailable, an 'independent person' is summoned.

Mr Ritchie, who began working with YRIPP two years ago after he retired, said the role played by independent people was very important. "[The young people] are very grateful to have you there."

Independent people may be summoned at any hour of the day or night and often arrive at police stations to find young people in distress. "If they don't have an adult there, they might be intimidated," Mr Ritchie said.

In addition to attending the interview, independent people can refer young people to counselling, housing, health and legal services for further support.

Mr Ritchie, who has attended about 30 interviews, said he had only once assisted a young man he "couldn't get a word out of" and he often left interviews feeling he wanted to offer more help.

"I've had a couple of kids break down and cry. It's hard to leave them like that.

"Sometimes you do feel like you want to do more, give them a place to stay, but we're not allowed to do that."

Victoria Police community engagement Inspector Chris Cosgriff said YRIPP volunteers played an extremely important role. "They are there for the young person when no one else is available."