Introducing Sue, our new Coordinator.
We’re delighted to introduce Sue, our new Coordinator at Newton Abbot Magistrates’ Court, Devon. Sue has been working with individuals and families as the Special Educational Needs and Disability Coordinator in mainstream education for over 20 years. This has been a demanding role, witnessing the effects of childhood trauma on a daily basis.
Neurodiversity
Sue has the transferable skills to support anyone through court. In addition, she has the ability to work with neurodivergent individuals. Over the years, she has learnt patience, flexibility and openness. Her listening skills will be put to good use as she gives people space to talk.
Extensive knowledge and training
As our new Coordinator, Sue brings extensive knowledge and training in ADHD, autism and mental health. Neurodivergent individuals experience challenges with communication, learning and sensory processing. She knows how to recognise the signs.
Navigating the justice system
The justice system is a real challenge for neurotypical individuals. However, when you’re already struggling to navigate systems and environments that are not designed for your needs, court can become even more of an issue. As a result, Sue can see the need to get these people extra support. Here’s some background information:
Research into neurodivergent people in the criminal justice system
Academics, practitioners and policymakers have become increasingly aware of the barriers to effective criminal proceedings for neurodivergent individuals. Recently, Clinks charity has worked with academics to research neurodivergent people in contact with the criminal justice system. You can find a very good summary of progress here.
On top of this, research by The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists outlines the need to identify the number of individuals in the criminal justice system with speech, language and communication needs, thus highlighting their need to access education and rehabilitative services.
The Government is trying to provide education, siting that over 30% of prisoners had learning difficulties and/or disabilities in 2022. Ultimately, many have speech, language and communication needs that may not have been identified. This would include ADHD and autism. We’re excited to share some of Sue’s knowledge here:
Sue shares her knowledge:
‘I want people to know that it’s never too late to get help.
Court
I was in court last week. Just in that short time, we saw two people with cerebral palsy, one with diagnosed autism, another with diagnosed ADHD, one homeless person, and a couple with diagnosed mental health disorders.
Broken the law
Yes, these people had broken the law, but there is so much more to consider. For example, their communication needs should be taken into consideration.
People need help much earlier
People need access to help much earlier, before they reach crisis point at court. The system is letting them down. Schools, social care, NHS, and mental health services need to work together to ensure people get help earlier. To summarise, we can’t put a square peg into a round hole.
Finding the right way to communicate
It’s important to find the right way to communicate. Consequently, I will make sure that information is delivered clearly. We can break down information, talk slowly and allow people the time to process. I try to allow 10 seconds of silence. I aim to be patient, avoiding sensory overload. On top of this, if someone has ADHD, they may need to take a break and walk around.
Trauma and autism
Trauma and autism present with similar behaviours, and yet they have very different causes. The Coventry Grid is used by professionals to try and differentiate between autism and attachment problems, based on clinical observations. It’s really important that we’re sensitive to the needs of the person we’re supporting.’
Change is possible. I’m passionate about being able to help and make a difference to someone’s life.
I can’t change the world, but I can change somebody’s world. That means a lot.
Delighted to introduce Sue
We’re delighted to introduce Sue and we wish her all the very best in her new role.
Need support through court?
Contact your local hub if you need 1:1 support through court in Devon or Cornwall.