New guidance for the criminal justice system on representing adults with learning disabilities

Frontline staff in the criminal justice system are being urged to make the most of new factsheets, designed to help them better support adults with learning disabilities.

Currently many adults end up underrepresented due to communication challenges that the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities, who produced the factsheets, believe can be overcome.

Research programme manager, Jill Davies, explains: “We know that people with learning disabilities are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system, and we need to ensure that frontline staff are aware of their vulnerability.

“From our interviews with a range of practitioners there is a feeling that some offenders struggle to understand or engage because of difficulties with communication, organisational, literacy, memory and problem-solving skills. This can lead to missed appointments and non-participation in treatment programmes which could vastly reduce their risk of engaging in criminal behaviour.”

She continues: “Practitioners told us they would value practical information on how to support people with learning disabilities by making sure they turn up for appointments; making information easier to read or understand; knowing what other professionals or services are available to support the person; and having a better understanding if a person has a learning disability or not. We are confident that these factsheets will become an important resource for frontline staff in the criminal justice system.”

The factsheets include information on: how to spot signs that a person has a disability; making information easier; making appointments; making decisions; and accessing related services.