The concept of intellectual disability, and people with intellectual disability in Corrective Services NSW

Within New South Wales there is a significant focus on people with intellectual disability who come into contact with the criminal justice system. In Corrective Services NSW there was initially an emphasis on identification of this population but more recently the focus has moved to increasing program options both within custody and in the community. The identification and provision of programs has resulted in awareness of significantly more offenders with intellectual disability in the correctional system. It is therefore critical that those working in the system have some understanding of the concept of intellectual disability, and the knowledge and skills of how to interact with people with this label. This paper begins with an exploration of the historical changes in the definition of the concept, briefly discusses the current understanding, and then makes suggestions for staff interactions. Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW) does not limit services to people who fit the strict definition of intellectual disability but uses a broader focus that includes people with ‘borderline’ cognitive functioning. People who offend who function in the borderline or intellectual disability range (or range of cognitive impairment) are located in correctional centres around NSW, and all staff working within CSNSW are required to understand and meet the additional needs of people with ‘cognitive impairment’. CSNSW has set up several systems to assist staff, including State-wide Disability Services and information systems accessible by all staff.