Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough: Helping to Shape the Future of Policing

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough recently worked with local residents to help improve policing for people with autism, other neurodiverse conditions, and their carers. This first-of-its-kind event gave participants the opportunity to share their experiences and provide feedback on how police officers interact with disabled members of the public.

The session was run in partnership with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Cambridgeshire Constabulary, and the advocacy charity VoiceAbility. Attendees were invited to watch real police body-worn camera footage and discuss what they saw. They were encouraged to ask questions, reflect on how officers handled each situation, and suggest ways policing could be more sensitive and effective.

Putting lived experience at the centre

For the Police and Crime Commissioner, understanding the experiences of people with disabilities is essential. Senior Policy Officer Matilda Pearson explained:

“It is essential to the Police and Crime Commissioner to listen to the voices of the public in order to help him hold the Constabulary to account for ethical policing. Community Scrutiny Panels give members of the public a chance to review the use of police powers and provide meaningful feedback. Working with VoiceAbility and Healthwatch brought new perspectives and raised thought-provoking questions that will be taken back to the Constabulary.”

Residents appreciated the chance to be heard. Sean, a member of VoiceAbility, said:

“The session was very informative. Watching the videos helped me understand how officers respond, and I felt my feedback was genuinely listened to.”

Lucy Kennedy, Healthwatch Partnership Board Project Manager, highlighted the importance of the event:

“This was a valuable opportunity to support residents in sharing their views and shaping police practices. The feedback will influence training and approaches, and we were thrilled that one attendee is now planning to volunteer regularly with the Community Scrutiny Panel.”

Insights that could shape policing

The feedback from participants highlighted several practical ways to improve police interactions with neurodiverse people:

• Reducing sudden sensory triggers, such as flashing lights, during incidents.
• Using calm, clear, and sensory-aware communication.
• Considering plain-clothes attendance for certain situations.
• Following the ‘Right Care, Right Person’ approach to ensure people in mental health crisis are supported by the most appropriate service.

Caitlin Bones from Cambridgeshire Constabulary added:

“The insights shared by attendees help us refine our practices, reduce misunderstandings, and promote calm, sensory-aware communication when interacting with people with disabilities.”

Looking ahead

Healthwatch is proud to have supported this event, which strengthens community voices and ensures policing is more inclusive, fair, and reflective of the needs of all residents. By engaging directly with neurodiverse communities, the Constabulary can continue to learn, adapt, and improve the experience of those they serve.

Following Healthwatch’s coverage on this topic, check out the BBC’s take for more insights: Read the article