Adam Dance MP: “We need a better understanding of ADHD in our prison system”

Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil, Adam Dance, has called for improved data collection and earlier support for people with ADHD in the criminal justice system, following answers to Parliamentary Questions he submitted to the Ministry of Justice.

In response to Mr Dance’s question about how many prisoners in England live with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the Government admitted that it does not hold this data centrally.

Mr Dance, who lives with ADHD himself, said:

“ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that, if left undiagnosed and unsupported, can have life-changing consequences. Far too many people with ADHD fall through the cracks of our public services, and by the time they get help, they’re already in the criminal justice system.”

He welcomed steps being taken by the Ministry of Justice, including the national rollout of Neurodiversity Support Managers and the introduction of a new digital tool to help identify additional learning needs in prisons. But he warned that more must be done:

“It’s positive to see progress on support within prisons, but we still don’t know the true scale of need because the data simply isn’t being collected. That’s not good enough.”

“We need early intervention—so that people get the diagnosis, care and support they need before they reach crisis point. That includes better support in schools and workplaces, as well as more robust community mental health services.”

Mr Dance continues to campaign for improved support for neurodivergent individuals in education, health and justice. In Parliament, he is calling for shorter waiting times, investment in ADHD services, and a national plan to tackle the postcode lottery in diagnosis and care.

He added:

“Living with ADHD can be a challenge, but with the right support in place, people can thrive. It’s time we built a justice system—and a society—that recognises that.”