Custody mural to support neurodiverse detainees
BBCA calming new mural has been unveiled at a custody suite, in a pioneering effort to provide better support for detainees with neurodiverse conditions.
Covering all four walls of the Gloucestershire Constabulary's custody yard, the artwork was officially revealed on 7 July.
Local artist Murmur designed the mural which incorporates soft colours, abstract patterns and a transition from night to day, all aimed at reducing overstimulation and anxiety in what can be a stressful environment.
Insp Andy Miller said: "When somebody is in custody their welfare is of paramount importance and we want to make sure that we're doing all we can to minimise the impact of detention."
Insp Miller, who works in the custody unit and managed the project, added: "We've recognised that there's a need to make changes to the sensory demands in the custody environment to accommodate people with neurodiversity and the new, calming mural is one of the steps we've taken to reduce the stress and anxiety many might feel."
The initiative was developed with input from neurodivergent individuals, Gloucestershire's neurodiversity network, Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs), and was supported by the Integrated Adults Commissioning Hub.
Additional changes have been introduced, including a dedicated quiet cell for those overwhelmed by noise and a visual guidebook to explain the custody process to detainees who may struggle with verbal communication or unexpected situations.
Police and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson said: "People who are detained in custody are some of the most vulnerable in society.
"Making small changes to how we treat them can have big impacts.
"Detainees are not prisoners and are innocent until proven otherwise.
"This mural is a small but meaningful step toward making the experience more trauma-informed."
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