The Sentencing Council has published a new guideline for sentencing offenders with mental disorders, developmental disorders or neurological impairments.

The ‘Overarching principles: Sentencing offenders with mental disorders, developmental disorders, or neurological impairments’ guideline, provides clarity and transparency around the sentencing process for this group of offenders.

The guideline, which will come into force on 1 October 2020, applies to adults who at the time of the offence and/or at the time of sentencing have disorders or impairments such as:

• Mental disorders – conditions like schizophrenia, depression or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Developmental disorders – autism or learning disability
• Neurological impairments – acquired brain injury (ABI) or dementia

 A press release is available on the Council website.