Emergency Hero of the Year: Bailiwick Law Enforcement and Autism Guernsey

THE team at Bailiwick Law Enforcement and Autism Guernsey have been nominated for the Emergency Hero of the Year award, sponsored by the Medical Specialist Group.

Julia Watts nominated the teams for their development of the Autism Passport Scheme.

The scheme was launched in April 2020 and provides additional support for people with autism who come into contact with the criminal justice system.

‘BLE understand that dealing with law enforcement, either as the aggrieved, witness or suspect, is outside of most people’s personal experience and it can be daunting.

‘People with autism may find this affects them more, so for the officers to have the knowledge beforehand means they can adjust their approach and help the person through this experience in a way that will be less stressful for them.

‘As an organisation that works across society it is important that BLE do everything they can to ensure that everyone within the community they serve feels they get the best possible service.

‘This passport means we are better serving those with autism.’

Sergeant Steve Gilman was instrumental in the passport initiative at BLE.

‘This fantastic initiative has been used in a similar manner by the Metropolitan Police and really proved its worth. Due to different ways of working we have been able to expand on it and make it more effective to everyone’s needs,’ he said.