Neurodiversity Celebration Week - Ruth Waters' story
Ruth works as a Neurodiversity Practitioner at HMP North Sea Camp in Lincolnshire. HMP Northsea Camp is a category D prison with a population of 300 prisoners. Ruth has an open referral system and supports approximately 10% of the prison, at any given time.
Ruth gives us some insight into her role.
“As the prisoners are coming in, I carry out a check on the incoming list to see if there are any prisoners with any history of neurodiversity, whether they have had a formal diagnosis or descriptions of neurodiverse needs. I will then approach the prisoner and offer them the opportunity to participate in a general assessment, this is more of a casual chat really, just to determine if they require any support or need to undergo screening or assessment."
“This process unfolds over several weeks, involving gathering any extra information, which may include reaching out to their family. Information is used to build a picture of strengths and needs and to then put plans in place with the person for coping with prison life and starting to think about life beyond the prison walls. Allison Woodhead (Neurodiversity Clinical Lead) comes onto site monthly so that we can complete the diagnostic process for autism together. I also offer assessment and diagnosis for people describing symptoms of ADHD and work with the psychiatrist to provide treatment options”.
“It's quite different here at HMP North Sea Camp as many of our prisoners go on to outside work. Where we would normally offer group or one to one psychoeducation, sometimes it's quite difficult because they're not actually on site most of the time but we offer flexible sessions to meet the needs of the prison. Those seeking extra support and further education can join group sessions to explore what it means to have an autism diagnosis and to develop individual strategies for living well with Autism and/or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These groups are delivered along with the support of the Neuro Diversity Support manager who works in the prison promoting the neurodiversity agenda.
“I'm also able to offer acceptance and commitment therapy sessions for people who need therapeutic input. This is a mindfulness based approach to developing flexibility of thought.
“We also offer onsite training to all staff and are currently providing group sessions for up to 12 members of staff. This is on a rolling basis for the next two or three months so that we can support them to develop their understanding of neurodiversity and hopefully be able to support our prisoners more effectively.”
