Neurodiversity in the Criminal Justice System: A review of Evidence
Criminal Justice Joint Inspection
This report is the outcome of the review commissioned by the Lord Chancellor and completed by HM Inspectorate of Prisons and HM Inspectorate of Probation. The report reviews the evidence into Neurodivergence in the criminal justice system. Concerns over patchiness of data concerning neurodivergent people, inconsistency in assessment and levels of knowledge and understanding of staff are addressed. The aim of the review is to understand what is currently known and to make recommendations for further action from the government. Data was gathered through analysis of data sources, a series of round table events, a general call for evidence, by consulting with practitioners and listening to neurodivergent people with experience of the criminal justice system. The review found evidence of good local partnerships and simple adjustments that could be made to support neurodivergent people. The review notes that provision is patchy and inconsistent and that too little is being done to meet the needs of neurodivergent people. The report concludes with recommendations to improve current provisions.