While institutions like the NHS and DWP acknowledge the need for reasonable work adjustments due to Hidden Disabilities and Neurodivergence such as ADHD, Autism & Dyslexia, the UK courts have not yet implemented similar allowances for litigants in person. This discrepancy is not only frustrating but also deeply unfair to individuals who are navigating the legal system without adequate support. Access to justice demands reasonable allowance to ensure meaningful participation.

Hidden Disabilities including ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia can significantly impact one's ability to organise, focus, and remain attentive, which are crucial skills needed when engaging with complex legal processes. Recognising this, the NHS provides support and reasonable adjustments to enable neurodivergent people manage their conditions in various aspects of life. So why does this understanding not extend to our legal system? Neurodivergent people faced with complex court processes and thousands of pages of documents are often labelled “difficult”, “obsessed”, “badly behaved” or “non-engaging”, which are classic signs that an ADHD person is overwhelmed. The hyper-focus and innate abhorrence of injustice which some ADHD and autistic people have mean that they cannot leave an unfair situation alone, and they are labelled “obsessive” or “troublesome” for it.

The current approach places neurodivergent individuals with ADHD or Autism at a substantial disadvantage compared to those without such conditions, perpetuating a cycle of inequality and misunderstanding. For instance, studies indicate that approximately 1.5 million adults in the UK have ADHD, and the need for supportive legal accommodations is crucial for these individuals to ensure a fair trial and genuine access to justice. 

One clear and actionable solution is for UK courts to provide:

• simplified court documents;
• Automatic right to assistance, e.g. a McKenzie Friend in court as standard;
• Refusal or nullification of agreements made under pressure where the unrepresented party has asked for and been refused a break;
• Consideration of the effect of ADHD on missed deadlines; and
• Careful consideration before mischaracterising behaviour as “evasive”, “dishonest” or “non-engagement”
• Allowance for extra breaks during trials to prevent "white-out/blanking out"

By implementing these changes, UK courts can ensure a more inclusive and equitable legal system that upholds justice for all, recognising and supporting the diverse needs of every individual. These changes wouldn't just benefit those with hidden disabilities; they represent progress towards a more compassionate and understanding society as a whole.

Let's urge the UK courts to take necessary steps and make these critical adjustments so that every individual has a fair chance in our legal system. Sign this petition to demand official allowances for Neurodivergent litigants in person in the UK courts.