Commissioner hosts ADHD awareness conference
24.01.14 - MerseysideMore than 80 Merseyside Police officers and staff undertook training to increase their awareness of ADHD at a conference organised by the Commissioner and the ADHD Foundation.
Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Jane Kennedy joined forces with the Liverpool-based organisation to host the session at Force Headquarters which aimed to increase understanding of the condition Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
The event included talks from experts Dr Tony Lloyd and Dr Kuden Naidoo who spoke to officers and staff about how to recognise the characteristic behaviour and symptoms of the disorder when they come across it in their working lives.
Young people who have ADHD and have become involved with the criminal justice system also gave moving first-hand accounts of their experiences.
Jane Kennedy said: “National estimates suggest that upwards of 40% of people in the criminal justice system may have ADHD or a similar disorder.
“More and more, police officers and staff are coming into contact with individuals, particularly young people, who have ADHD and sadly for some individuals this may be the first time their condition has been recognised.
“Early intervention is key to the ADHD Foundation’s Work and that is why I thought it was important to host this conference and help increase understanding and awareness of the signs among Merseyside’s officers and staff.
“Left undiagnosed or treated, ADHD can result in a lifetime of exclusion, vulnerability to other mental health problems and drink and drug issues.”
The ADHD Foundation has already carried out work with Merseyside Police, particularly with the Force’s custody staff and the youth justice services.
As well as Merseyside Police, the Foundation also works with individuals, families, doctors, teachers and other agencies to promote a better understanding and promote inclusion of people with ADHD in education and employment.
Find out more about ADHD and the Foundation.