Register Sex Offender adjustments

Freedom of Information (FOI) Act request ref: 24/2238

Version Date: 15/08/2024

The Public Protection Unit have provided the following information. 

(1) What reasonable adjustments, if any, are provided, in relation to the management of offenders subject to notification requirements under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, to those suffering with a disability as defined by the Equality Act 2010?

Every effort is made to ensure that when managing Registered Sex Offenders, any disability is considered with sensitivity and professionalism. The MAPPA (Multi Agency Public Protection Arrangements) Diversity Statement stipulates the following. 

‘the work of MAPPA is committed to equal access to services for all groups, particularly in relation to race, gender, age, religious beliefs and disability, and to ensuring that policies and procedures do not draw on stereotypical assumptions about groups or contain any elements that will be discriminatory in outcome. In undertaking its work, the agencies involved in MAPPA will be sensitive and responsive to people’s differences and needs and will integrate that understanding into the delivery of it’s function in order to ensure that nobody is disadvantaged as a result of their belonging to a specific social group.’ 

 

(2) For those with neurodiversity issues such as Autism, ADHD, or other mental health issues which could make it more difficult for an individual to either understand the notification requirements or manage their compliance with those notification requirements, what reasonable adjustments are made for them by your force?

It is in everyone’s interest to ensure that any Registered Sex Offenders, with neurodiverse needs, fully understand the Notification Requirements of the Sex Offenders Register. Sometimes these individuals have had an Appropriate Adult function whilst in Police custody, or a social worker involvement in their lives, who can then continue to facilitate communication, where necessary and appropriate, throughout their time on the Sex Offenders Register.