This paper presents lived experience perspectives from two individuals with different neurodivergent diagnoses who have spent time in custody.
Usman shares his experience of serving two prison sentences with undiagnosed Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). He reflects on the fact that he found the prison processes, systems and regimes hard to navigate, and often got in trouble for not abiding by rules which he didn’t understand and that no one took the time to explain to him. He describes generally a lack of support for his needs whilst he was serving his sentences, and whilst on probation. The unique insight Usman shares about how his current diagnosis has helped him to understand himself and reflect on his past is illuminating. Then, Kirsty, describes her experience of navigating custody and probation with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She also talks about difficulties she had with the regime, adjusting to the routine, understanding rules, and accommodating to changes quickly. But in contrast to Usman’s experience, Kirsty had a positive experience with her probation officer and some services in prison were also described as beneficial to her.
Together these experiences highlight:
- the struggles that individuals with neurodivergence (diagnosed and undiagnosed) can experience within the Criminal Justice System;
- the importance of neurodiversity awareness, staff training, and provision of specialist staff;
- the need for better assessment and diagnoses in prison, and greater communication between services; and
- the necessity to develop prison cultures which are more accommodating for people with neurodiverse needs.
