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Police forces adopt new measures to support neurodivergent detainees
Environmental changes in custody suites reduce assaults on staff
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By Peter Clark (Senior Editor, Autism Info Center) Tuesday 26th May 2026 |
In the UK, the Gloucestershire Constabulary's successful custody suite redesign is being adopted by other police forces across the South West to support neurodivergent detainees.
The initial project, which was implemented in 2025, introduced low lighting, books, and calming wall murals featuring soft colours and abstract patterns.
According to the police and crime commissioner, these simple environmental adjustments have drastically decreased the number of assaults against police staff while remaining highly cost-effective.
Following this success, Avon and Somerset Police has introduced similar changes, including custom cell doors to reduce the impact of being locked in, three-level adjustable lighting to counter sensory overload, and targets painted on cell walls for recreational ball games.
The regional forces are collaborating to share best practices, with the aim of reducing trauma and creating a calm, safe environment for vulnerable people during difficult periods in custody.
Source: BBC News (UK)
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4g4lje1w2xo
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