We are pioneering specialist support for neurodivergent people at Newton Abbot Magistrates’ Court. Since June 2026, our team in Newton Abbot has already helped about 36 neurodivergent people at court. And now, four are receiving ongoing support. Thanks to Devon Community Foundation, we can tailor the help that these people receive at court by:
- Giving them some tools to cope under pressure
- Increasing understanding of the issues within the court system, working closely with security, ushers, solicitors, probation, and magistrates
- Providing a handbook of local support groups in Teignbridge, Torbay and South Hams
Understanding what’s going on
Court is anxiety-inducing for anyone. But, when you are neurodivergent, this unfamiliar environment can be unbearable. You may feel jumpy, you can’t think straight and you’re completely overwhelmed. In this state of anxiety, you may react inappropriately, especially when faced with an authority figure. As a result, you need to find ways to regulate. First and foremost, you need to know that support is tailored to your needs and that it is available for you at court.
Frustration builds
Frustration builds at court. People sometimes storm out. Then, a warrant goes out, they get arrested, and then end up in the cells. As a result, the sentence is firmer. All this can be avoided with the right understanding and support.
Communication is key
Communication is key. Firstly, it’s important to work out the issues. For instance, you may find it difficult to receive, send, process, or comprehend verbal, nonverbal, and graphic symbol systems. Things can get very complicated. We understand that the right form of communication is key. Above all, we are here to help you develop the tools to deal with this situation.
Support is available for neurodivergent people at court
People can get sensory overwhelm in this unfamiliar environment. We do our best to make all our hubs safe, calm and relaxing. This specialist project in Newton Abbot is pioneering further steps in the right direction. For instance, we keep the lighting low and find ways to help you stay calm. We even have a gentle landscape painting on the wall. On top of this, you may need a fidget toy or a colouring book. As a result, we hope that you may be able to process information more accurately.
By your side
We can be by your side at court. Plus, we can explain what’s going on. Recently, we were able to share with the court about the way that our client’s autism had affected the case. Court staff worked really hard to explain everything. On top of this, we were able to help everyone understand the build-up that triggered the behaviour that led to court. Sometimes, people are defending themselves. We are not making excuses for the behaviour, but, rather, we aim to give solid reasons so that magistrates get the full picture.
In-house professional development
The CASS+ team works hard on continuing professional development. All employees, volunteers and trustees do the Me Learning Autism Awareness course. Consequently, we are working towards the SPELL framework, a person-centred approach developed by the National Autistic Society to support autistic adults.
What does SPELL stand for?
The acronym represents five core principles of best practice:
- Structure: Making the world clear, organized, and predictable to lower stress and anxiety
- Positive (approaches and expectations): Focusing on individual strengths, joys, and building self-esteem rather than making negative assumptions
- Empathy: Trying to see and understand the world from the autistic person’s point of view
- Low arousal (level of regulation): Keeping physical and social environments calm to prevent sensory overload
- Links: Connecting families, professionals, and the individual to build strong and consistent support networks
Local networks
Finally, we want to spread the word about all the amazing local groups. There is too much social isolation in Devon and Cornwall. We believe that we all need each other. As a result, we want to connect you to the right local group. We are looking forward to distributing our handbook so that more people get access to the right support in their neighbourhood.
Find local like-minded people
When we become more connected, there will be less social isolation and, possibly, less crime. A support network makes all the difference.
If you are in this situation, it’s very important that you find like-minded people. For example, the Teignmouth Neurodiversity Hub is a lovely welcoming peer support group. Nationally, you can access employment support with Exceptional Individuals.
Change is needed
Both Autism and ADHD are over-represented in the UK criminal justice system. For example, around 2 – 5% of adults in the general population have ADHD. And yet, studies suggest that ADHD may be present in approximately 30% of adult male prisoners (Young et al., 2011).
National strategy
We fully support the call for a new autism strategy to deliver change for neurodiverse individuals. The Ministry of Justice recognises the importance of improving support for people with autism and ADHD right across the criminal justice system. Furthermore, the government has a plan to train magistrates and legal advisers on fair treatment in court.
Calling for more support for neurodivergent people at court
People are less likely to offend when there is more understanding and awareness of their needs. Also, it’s vital that they are connected to the right support. In court, they need clear communication and reasonable adjustments. This results in benefits to both the individual and the wider criminal justice system.
Rachel Hammond, Assistant Coordinator, Newton Abbot Magistrates’ Court
Support is available for neurodivergent people at court
Finally, we want you to feel understood and listened to. We’re really keen to support clients with autism and / or ADHD at any of our hubs inside the courts in Exeter, Newton Abbot, Plymouth, Bodmin or Truro. If you are in this situation and need support through court in Devon or Cornwall, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to help.
Find your local hub here.
Watch a truly inspiring film about Emma who we have supported at Exeter Crown and County Court here.
UK research into neurodiversity in the criminal justice system
See additional UK research calling for specialist treatment programmes here.