Police Launch Autism Stop and Search Guide Inspired by Superintendent’s Son
Superintendent Dion Brown has co-written a crucial guide to help autistic people if they are stopped by police. Released during World Autism Month, the guide aims to ease stressful encounters between officers and autistic individuals.
A Rollercoaster of Emotions
Superintendent Brown’s 14-year-old son, Hayden, is autistic and obsessed with rollercoasters. “He loves the fastest, scariest rides,” Brown says. But what most wouldn’t see is the stress and meltdowns Hayden experiences before the fun even begins.
“Making decisions is tough for him,” Brown explains. “Choosing which rollercoaster to ride first can trigger anxiety and behaviour that could be misunderstood by others.”
Hayden also struggles with common sensory challenges: unexpected touch, noisy environments, and strangers speaking to him cause distress. These behaviours, misunderstood by police, can lead to suspicion and unnecessary stop and searches.
Bridging the Gap Between Police and Autism
Brown worries about how police encounters might affect Hayden. “Would he understand what’s happening? Could it escalate to a meltdown or worse?” he asks. To help, he taught Hayden to show his Autism Alert Card to officers. The card quickly communicates his condition and can be requested by emailing [email protected].
Realising many autistic people and police officers could benefit from this knowledge, Brown teamed up with autistic barrister Sean Kennedy to create the “Stop and Search Guidance for Autistic People and Police Officers.” Kennedy works for the charity Anna Kennedy Online in London and has represented many autistic clients.
A Guide for Greater Understanding and Fair Treatment
The guide explains stop and search in clear, simple terms for autistic individuals and sets out best practices for officers to follow. It encourages respect, awareness, and reasonable adjustments to reduce stress during police stops.
Distributed to every police force across the UK, it aims to build trust and ensure autistic people are treated fairly and lawfully.
Supt Brown says: “There are over 700,000 autistic people in the UK, many living and working in London. Good communication during stop and search is vital. Autism requires a bespoke approach. Our guidance helps police reduce stress and protect the rights of autistic people.”
About Superintendent Dion Brown
- Grew up in Wales and joined the Met Police 20 years ago.
- Started as a constable in Notting Hill; worked across Islington, Newham, and specialist crime units.
- Father of five, including two autistic children, Hayden (14) and Darcy (11).
- Champions autism awareness in policing through initiatives like Autism Alert Cards and the Met Police Autism Support Group.
- Developed the new stop and search guidance with community input and advocacy groups.
Supt Brown and his team will continue raising autism awareness among officers to foster stronger, respectful relationships with the autistic community nationwide.
