§ Paul HolmesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps the Government are taking to ensure that(a) the police force, (b) the Crown 155W Prosecution Service and (c) judges take part in continuing training programmes, so they can identify and respond to the needs and concerns of people with a learning disability. [35546]
§ Mr. DenhamThe basic training received by all recruits to the police service includes an element designed to raise awareness of all disabilities, including learning disabilities, and to highlight the importance of communicating effectively and sensitively with people suffering from mental illness and mental disorder. In addition, forces provide further training to meet local needs.
For the future, we are developing national occupational standards and a core curriculum which will identify the knowledge and skills required for officers' roles and any training requirements.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) provides a number of training courses, which consider the needs of people with disabilities (including learning disabilities) both as victims of crime and as employees of the service.
The following training is available to staff and specifically considers the requirements of customers and staff with learning disabilities:
- Diversity Training
- Direct Communication with Victims and Witnesses
- Disability Discrimination Act Training
- Speaking Up for Justice Training.
Judicial education is the responsibility of the Judicial Studies Board (JSB). The JSB comprises six committees one of which is the Equal Treatment Advisory Committee which issued the Equal Treatment Bench Book to all judges. A chapter in the Bench Book gives advice on identifying and responding to the needs and concerns of people with a learning disability. Continuing training is carried out by seminars organised by the criminal, civil and family committees of the JSB.