Administration of Justice: Autism

HM Courts and Tribunal Service (HMCTS) has a legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to provide reasonable adjustments for users with disabilities, including dyslexia.

HMCTS supports court and tribunal users with dyslexia and autism through its reasonable adjustment process. The type of reasonable adjustments we can provide to support users with dyslexia and or autism include:

• providing our forms in Alternative formats such as large print;

• providing our guidance in audio or easy read;

• allowing more time to explain procedures;

• offering to read forms and leaflets out to our users;

• allowing more time in hearings;

• allowing a close relative or carer to accompany the person;

• consider appointing an intermediary to help communication;

• explanations and instructions given slowly and clearly;

• fully or partially remote hearings; and,

• speaking slowly and allowing extra time to answer.

HMCTS is a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network to help people visiting court and tribunal buildings who may need additional support. Users who choose to wear the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower are discreetly indicating they need additional support, help or a little more time. Court and tribunal staff know how to recognise the Sunflower lanyard and may ask what we can do to help. Sunflower lanyards are available in all our buildings free of charge.

Users are encouraged to contact HMCTS to discuss any particular adjustments so that the support can be tailored to their individual needs. Staff will sensitively ask those needing reasonable adjustments what support they need.

The Equal Treatment Bench Book, published by Judicial College (Equal Treatment Bench Book - Courts and Tribunals Judiciary) contains guidance on fair treatment, equality issues and general information on disability issues and religion for judges. It includes information on dyslexia and autism and how to support court and tribunal users.