Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, pursuant to the Answer of 3 March 2021 to Question UIN 157167, whether the Independent Call for Evidence on neurodiversity in the criminal justice service launched in December 2020 has led to considerations of the specific needs of adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

We are committed to improving the interaction that individuals with neurodivergent conditions have with the CJS, and we are currently still exploring how this may be achieved. I recognise that there is more we can and should be doing as a Justice system, which is why we announced a call for evidence on neurodiversity.

MoJ has commissioned HMI Prisons and Probation, with support from HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, to conduct an Independent Call for Evidence on neurodiversity in the CJS. This will enable us to understand what happens to neurodivergent people now, including those with ADHD, and how we can better support them in future to realise better outcomes.

The final report from the Call for Evidence will be produced in Summer 2021, at which point my officials will be better placed to speak to the specific considerations that should be given to individuals within the criminal justice system with ADHD.

Once the MoJ receive the full written report from the call for evidence, my officials will be developing a ‘Neurodiversity Toolkit’, as announced in the Sentencing White Paper, which will be delivered nationwide to frontline staff. This will be informed by the findings of the Call for Evidence, and it will include information on ADHD. Improving our staff’s awareness and understanding of neurodivergent needs, including ADHD, may then enable frontline staff to feel confident to make referrals to health services effectively if needed.