Bristol, UK: The UK National Police Autism Association (NPAA) is today aware of an online petition by Paula McGowan asking for mandatory training for all police officers on autism. The petition was launched by Ms McGowan as part of her campaign to introduce mandatory autism training for healthcare professionals, following the death of her son Oliver in 2016.

One of the NPAA’s main aims is to ensure that front-line police officers are given training on autism and related conditions, and that the training given is condition-specific. It is for this reason that we welcome and support this petition.

NPAA Head of Policy Adam O’Loughlin commented: “This petition highlights the absolute need for all police services to ensure that their front line officers are sufficiently trained to recognise the outward traits displayed by many autistic people and to react appropriately. We are more than happy to support it.”

The NPAA works closely with all UK police forces – we are aware that many frontline officers have either received autism awareness training or are due to receive training soon.

About us: The NPAA is an independent group supporting – and run by – UK police officers, staff and volunteers who are affected by autism (including Asperger syndrome) and other neurodiverse conditions such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and depression. We welcome all police personnel with a personal, family or professional interest in these conditions.