Offenders with learning difficulties need help

Offenders with learning difficulties are  missing out on treatment and rehabilitation that meets their needs, say researchers at Bristol University today. Their treatment is being discussed at an event aiming to identify gaps in service provision and exchange information about best practice.

Many offenders with  learning difficulties have multiple problems, say researchers at Bristol’s Norah Fry centre. Often they may have little family contact, live in short-term or unstable accommodation, be unemployed,  have mental health difficulties and are likely to be victims of domestic or sexual violence, or child abuse. 

Delegates at  today’s event include social work, prison, probation and health professionals and representatives from government and prison charities.