60080 (2024). Ingrid Leary to the Minister of Corrections

60080 (2024). Ingrid Leary to the Minister of Corrections: Does the Minister agree with psychiatrist Marie Bismark that "at least a quarter of people in prison have ADHD, but their risk of reoffending goes down a third if you treat them"; if so, what, if anything, will he do to address this?

Hon Mark Mitchell: I am advised that it is currently impractical for Corrections to undertake routine ADHD assessments when people are received into custody. Corrections officials, therefore, do not hold data to support the quotation included in the member’s question. I am, however, advised that processes are in place to assess the neurodiverse needs of people when they arrive in prison. Upon arrival a Registered Nurse completes a Reception Health Screen. This initial health assessment aims to identify their physical and mental health needs and determines whether a more comprehensive or specialist assessment is required. Furthermore, before engaging in Corrections’ offence-focused psychological treatment programmes, eligible participants undertake several psychometric tests as part of the suitability assessment. These include standardised personality and cognitive functioning assessments, with scope for additional assessments to explore the neurodiverse needs of individual client. I am advised that a number of Corrections interventions and programmes include skill development in the areas of impulse control, emotion regulation and seeking support, that can help those with ADHD to manage their behaviour. I am further advised that Corrections has partnered with Auckland University of Technology, the University of Auckland, the University of Waikato, and SERCO to commission a prevalence survey, which will provide insights into the cognitive abilities (strengths and limitations) of people in prison. Results from this study will inform the development and delivery of interventions and programmes, mental health services, vocational programmes and training for frontline staff.