Wearable technology helps blue light services provide support when attending emergency incidents
Devon & Cornwall Police have launched a pilot aimed at improving the way blue light services support neurodivergent (ND) people when attending emergency incidents.
The project involves the use of green wristbands, known as ‘Neurodiversity IDs’ (NDIDs), that can be worn by ND individuals. When scanned by emergency services, the embedded chip provides vital information about the person so that responders on scene can give them the right help at the time.
The wristbands, designed in collaboration with the ND community, were designed to share details of a person’s neurodivergence, how an individual communicates best, any medical needs they may have and emergency contact details for their next of kin.
The aim is that the NDIDs will support improved interactions and communication between police officers, other emergency services and the wearer.
“We know that emergency situations can sometimes be overwhelming,” said PC John Holland, who supported with the launch of the trial alongside PC Dudley Rowe.
“The wristbands are about putting the person at the centre of our response so we can make sure our communication and care is appropriate from the very first moment.
“The information that they provide will give us the tools we need to make sure our officers handle incidents in the most effective way possible.”
PC Holland added: “We know that we haven’t always got it right in the past, but these wristbands offer an opportunity for us to continue to progress and improve the service we provide to the neurodivergent community.”
The development of the wristbands involved Devon & Cornwall Police, Autistic Community of Cornwall, National Police Autism Association and the National Youth Neurodiversity Council. The wristbands were obtained from Seritag.
The bands use near-field communication technology (NFC) chips and can be scanned by first responders, caregivers and community members.
The initiative is being launched in the Cornwall area – pilot leads are working with local policing teams and partners to identify those able to participate.
If the pilot is successful, the Force hopes the project will be rolled out across Devon and Cornwall.
The pilot has been funded by the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA).
Click on the links to view a news article on the Devon & Cornwall Police website, and a FAQ (frequently-asked questions) PDF providing more information on the project. ∎