Earlier this year, representatives from West Midlands Police visited Cygnet Cedars to speak with service users about how the police could best communicate with someone with a learning disability.
Amy Moss, Speech and Language Therapist, explained: “During the training, the police mentioned that they have a ‘Rights and Entitlements’ easy read document. Cygnet Cedars service users did not find this easy read document accessible or user friendly.
“The police requested that the service users work with the Speech Therapist to create their own more accessible version of the ‘Rights and Entitlements’ easy read.”
Together Amy and three dedicated service users came together every Friday morning to create an easy read document using inclusive language that would help those with learning disabilities understand their rights and entitlements if they are arrested. West Midlands Police were recently invited back to the service to discuss how the document was made.
Amy continued: “The service users worked hard to decide what words and pictures they thought would be most accessible to those with learning disabilities. The police were really impressed with the work the service users had done.
“It has made me proud to watch the service users work as a team to problem solve and make creative decisions in co-producing the easy read. The service users were motivated to work on this document to help ease the anxiety of being arrested for individuals with a learning disability.”
PC Luke Cooper, from the Bordesley Green neighbourhood policing team, said: “The service users had some great ideas and wanted to ask us questions regarding policing and mental health. They shared their experiences with us and how they thought we could improve. It was a humbling experience for me and I found it really thought-provoking.
“It is brilliant to speak with service users and gain knowledge from their learnt experience. This will only help us provide a better service.”
One of the service users involved in the project said, “I have enjoyed making the easy read for the police and giving back to the community that has given me so much.” Another commented, “It makes me feel proud that the police are impressed with my work.”