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You are here: Home> Working with people with autism> Criminal justice

Information for criminal justice professionals

 

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In your working life, you can expect to meet many people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). If you work with people who have learning disabilities, you will meet many more.

ASDs are much more common than most people think. There are over half a million people in the UK with an ASD - that's around 1 in 100 people.

It can be hard to create awareness of ASDs as people with the condition do not 'look' disabled: parents of children with an ASD often say that other people simply think their child is naughty; while adults find that they are misunderstood.

All people with an ASD can benefit from a timely diagnosis and access to appropriate services and support.

In this section, you'll find information for criminal justice professionals.


 

Autism: a guide for criminal justice professionals
This guide provides background information about autistic spectrum disorders. It aims to assist all professionals working in the Criminal Justice System, who may come into contact with someone who has autism, particularly police officers, solicitors, barristers, magistrates, justices of the peace, the judiciary and the courts.

Criminal justice system and ASDs
An overview of why people with an ASD may come in to contact with the criminal justice system, the procedures involved and the sources of support that are available.

A distance learning resource for criminal justice professionals
Access to the online learning resource designed to raise awareness amongst criminal justice professionals at all levels, featuring case studies, expert viewpoints and resource material. YOU MUST REGISTER WITH THE SITE TO ACCESS THE E-LEARNING MODULE.

Position statement: crime and autism
On occasions when a person with autism comes to the attention of the police and other services it is normally a result of their social and communication difficulties being misunderstood and because they are not given appropriate support.

Prison and ASDs
It is believed that there are a number of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) within the prison population. This article outlines the rights of people with disabilities when they are in prison.

Law firms sought with experience of working with people with an ASD
We are seeking details of law firms who have experience of working with, and representing, people with autism and Asperger syndrome.

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