Trials: Neurodiversity
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether he plans to review the reasonable adjustments required during court trials for (a) defendants (b) witnesses and (c) victims who are neurodivergent.
Answered by Sarah Sackman
HM Courts and Tribunal Service (HMCTS) has a legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to ensure all our users are treated fairly and that we do not discriminate against people with protected characteristics.
HMCTS will provide reasonable adjustments for court and tribunal users with disabilities. Court and tribunal users are encouraged to get in touch with HMCTS to discuss any particular adjustments they may need. HMCTS staff will sensitively ask those needing reasonable adjustments what support they require in order to be able to provide reasonable adjustments and will aim to list cases at suitable venues when there are access needs.
The Equal Treatment Bench Book, published by Judicial College (https://www.judiciary.uk/about-the-judiciary/diversity/equal-treatment-bench-book/) contains guidance on fair treatment, equality issues and general information on disability issues and religion for judges.
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