FASD Awareness CEO Contributes to Independent Prison Review

Andrew Keeping, CEO of FASD Awareness, has contributed evidence to the Government's Independent Review of the Prison System in England and Wales, calling for greater recognition of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and other neurodevelopmental disabilities throughout the criminal justice system. 

In the charity's submission, Andrew highlighted concerns that many people with FASD enter prison without their condition being identified, leading to inappropriate interventions, repeated offending and poor rehabilitation outcomes. He argued that better understanding of disability is essential to improving public safety, reducing reoffending and building confidence in the justice system. 

Among the key recommendations were:

• Routine screening for FASD and other neurodevelopmental disabilities.

• Mandatory training for prison and probation staff. 

• Specialist rehabilitation and diversion pathways tailored to cognitive impairments.

Andrew also emphasised that people with FASD are often vulnerable to exploitation in custody and can struggle with complex prison rules, licence conditions and rehabilitation programmes that are not designed for their needs. 

Commenting on the review, Andrew said:

“If we are serious about reducing reoffending and protecting the public, we must recognise the hidden disabilities affecting many people in the justice system. Better identification, training and support can improve outcomes for individuals, prisons and communities alike.”

FASD Awareness hopes the review will help drive a more evidence-based, disability-informed approach to prison reform and rehabilitation across England and Wales.