The Neurodivergence in Criminal Justice Network (NICJN) is a group of researchers, practitioners and community members interested in the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals drawn into the criminal justice system (CJS) of England and Wales.
Due to the nature of neurodivergent conditions and the manner in which the CJS operates, engagement can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent individuals, with evidence suggesting that significant barriers to a positive and effective experience remain at all stages, including in policing, courts and prisons.
The NICJN brings together key voices in relation to neurodivergence and the CJS (covering the processes of policing, courts, prisons, and probations) in England and Wales:
- researchers (from varied disciplines including forensic science, psychology, and law)
- clinical, legal (e.g. police, lawyers, judiciary) and other relevant practitioners
- community members who are neurodivergent or have a personal connection to neurodivergent individuals with ‘lived experience’ of the CJS.
If you have any queries about NICJN or about joining, please contact the network (NICJN@uwe.ac.uk).
