Think COULD – Supporting people with learning disabilites in the justice system

This written resource has been developed to complement the Think COULD animation which was created to support those working within justice services and to highlight key areas of consideration when supporting people with learning disabilities.

The resources provide additional information on what is a learning disability whilst promoting the health and communication needs of people with learning disabilities. It also gives practical examples of how to make reasonable adjustments to improve experiences and equitable access when people with learning disabilities are involved in justice services.

People with learning disabilities, and with autism are over-represented in the justice system.  Young people with learning disabilities are 10 times more likely to find themselves in custody than their non-disabled peers, and represent about 30% of people in custody.

People with learning disabilities can experience difficulties in communication, sensory processing, comprehension and social functioning.  Further, around 60% of prisoners, and those in custody have difficulties with communication.

There are a number of reasons as to why people with learning disabilities become involved in the justice system.

These include:

• Unusual behaviour that is perceived challenging, which can be misinterpreted. For example, unexpected change in the environment or routine which may cause great anxiety or distress.
• Limited life experiences in education, relationships and adverse childhood events which can often mean individuals may be vulnerable to manipulation for criminal purposes.
• Often have complex social care needs and therefore, vulnerable to exploitation and abuse (emotional, psychological, sexual and financial).
• May not be able to predict consequences of actions or learn from past experiences. This may lead to repeated offending without the correct person centred support.

Missed opportunities to identify if someone has a learning disability can limit timely access to reasonable adjustments and appropriate support, thus increasing inequalities.

The Think COULD animation was created to support those working within justice services and, to highlight key areas of consideration when supporting people with learning disabilities.

The animation can be accessed here:

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