Press Release
NAS launches campaign to raise understanding of autism amongst keyCJS professionals
19 October 2005
Today, 19 October 2005, The National Autistic Society (NAS) will launch its first ever Criminal Justice System (CJS) Information campaign at Inner Temple, London. This awareness-raising campaign aims to significantly increase understanding of autism and Asperger syndrome among key CJS professionals.
New NAS research, carried out by nfpSynergy in 2005 as background to the campaign, shows that 78% of solicitors and 92% of police professionals do not think there is a high level of understanding of autism in the legal profession. 94% of solicitors and 92% of police said they had not received training in autism. When asked what they thought were the barriers to improving the understanding of autism within the legal profession over half of solicitors and police cited lack of training and resources, and in the case of police 75% said lack of training time.
An estimated 535,000 people have autism in the UK today. Autism is a complex, lifelong disability that affects an in individual's ability to communicate and understand the world around them. Unfortunately, due to the nature of autism, individuals with the disability can be misunderstood when coming into contact with the Criminal Justice System (CJS).
When misunderstandings occur, innocent situations can escalate. Howard Leftley, Criminal Justice solicitor, said:
"In one case a client was arrested more than 60 times over a 12-month period for offences that she did not commit. The client was an individual with Asperger syndrome and the confusion over her actions arose from a lack of awareness about the condition. Had those who first interviewed her had an understanding of autism, she would not have been arrested again."
The NAS campaign will reach professionals from across the CJS to ensure individuals with autism are best supported at every level. Philip Moor, QC, Chairman of The Family Law Bar Association and speaker at the event, said:
"Through my work with families, I have experienced the deep impact that autism has on both the individual and the family unit as a whole. Autism is a complex disability that affects the way an individual communicates with others and understands the world. It is therefore important that barristers and the courts, as well as other Criminal Justice professionals, are informed of the condition in order that misunderstandings do not occur and that individuals can be most appropriately supported."
Speakers for the evening include Jane Asher, President of the NAS and high-profile parent Jacqui Jackson and her son Luke, who has Asperger syndrome.
Eileen Hopkins, NAS Director of National Services and host for the evening, said:
"Our event will see the start of a dedicated period of information sharing and relationship building with CJS professionals. The NAS has developed bespoke information packs and training materials to ensure professionals have access to information on every level. We will lobby for autism-specific training for a range of professionals, including police officers and will be monitoring our progress over the coming months."
Information packs tailored to the needs of CJS professionals will be distributed on the night and are available from 0845 070 4004. Information on autism for Criminal Justice System professionals and a downloadable version of the information pack can be found on the NAS website at www.autism.org.uk/cjp
Information on NAS training for CJS professionals and forthcoming training materials will also be provided during the evening. CJS professionals wishing to find out more about NAS training opportunities should call 0115 911 3363 or email: training@nas.org.uk
The NAS has recently produced an Autism Alert card that those with the disability can carry to explain their condition. The card has been designed to help people identify their needs in situations where they find communication difficult. More information about the Autism Alert card can be found on the NAS website at www.autism.org.uk/card
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