Police force piloting new ADHD checks on arrested suspects

A police force is piloting a new check on arrested suspects … to see if they have undiagnosed Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Cumbria Police have teamed up with charity ADHD Liberty to see if nicked suspects suffer from the condition, to give law enforcement agencies a better understanding of why the crimes are committed.

In 2021, Dame Sally Coates’ report for the prison watchdog HMIP suggested at least 50 per cent of prisoners could have some form of neurodivergence.

Last year City of London Police began to look at the neurodivergence of suspects – now Cumbria Police’s ADHD pilot will widen that approach.

Chief Superintendent Andy Wilkinson, Cumbria Police’s Custody lead said: “Cumbria is the second force to adopt the screening within custody, recognising the support required for those with ADHD.

“This will help us to signpost those with ADHD traits to get a diagnosis and also helps us understand offending, prevent reoffending which will in turn reduce demand.”

Sergeant Leesa Edwards, Chair of the ADHD Support and Working Group in Cumbria Constabulary approached the force about introducing the pilot and implemented and coordinated it in force.

The programme – that started on 11th November – also seeks to improve the information given to CPS prosecutors before charging and case decisions.

The identification of potential ADHD may assist in providing policing with a better understanding of the crimes committed and the ability to assist in preventing reoffending.

It will not provide a medical diagnosis, which can only be given by a professional, but individuals will be encouraged to seek further help and support for themselves.

The screening fits together with the mental health checklist already incorporated in processing suspects through the criminal justice system.

That system was developed by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and the National Police Chiefs’ Council, aims to improve information provided to CPS prosecutors before they make charging and case decisions.

Sarah Templeton, CEO of ADHD Liberty, said: “We have been absolutely thrilled to work with Cumbria Police.

“We know how hard they have worked to put this screening in place, and we think it will be an excellent example of how undiagnosed ADHD is potentially affecting offending in a rural location after our first pilot in the centre of London.”

Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “Custody suites across the county see people from all walks of life, some needing additional support.

“This screening supports the Police to get to do their job whilst providing individuals with the assistance they need.

“This again, shows that Cumbria is innovative in its approach to dealing with complex issues and that just because it is a small rural force, this doesn’t mean that you cannot be at the cutting edge of innovation and problem solving.

“Cumbria Constabulary is a high performing force that is always looking for ways to improve the service we provide to the residents and visitors to Cumbria.

“I look forward to seeing how this pilot progresses.”