Supporting Neurodivergent Participants and Neurodiversity Leads in Custody
Overview
Unlock Drama has been working in partnership with Neurodiversity Support Leads across the prison estate to design and deliver tailored theatre-based rehabilitation projects for neurodivergent participants. These include individuals with ADHD, autism, dyslexia and other cognitive differences who are often underserved by mainstream interventions.
Our approach focuses on recognising and amplifying strengths, adapting communication styles, and creating supportive, structured spaces where participants feel safe to engage.
Context and Challenge
Many neurodivergent individuals in custody report long histories of being misunderstood or excluded — both in education and through standardised rehabilitative provision. Their unique needs are often unmet in group settings, leading to isolation, low confidence, and disengagement.
Rebecca Boden, Unlock Drama’s founder, brings lived experience to this work, having navigated school as a neurodivergent learner herself. That experience informs the trauma-informed, participant-led methodology that underpins every project.
Our Approach
We work collaboratively with Neurodiversity Support Leads to:
- Co-design project themes that reflect the experiences of neurodivergent participants.
- Adjust pacing, communication, and facilitation style.
- Provide creative pathways for self-expression, group connection, and confidence building.
The structure of each project supports routine and safety while leaving space for creative autonomy. Our sessions encourage emotional regulation, teamwork, and identity exploration through drama and peer-led performance.
Participant Outcomes
Participants reported improvements in:
- Confidence and self-belief
- Ability to work in a group
- Emotional regulation and self-awareness
- Motivation to engage with further learning or preparation for Cat D progression
Direct participant feedback included:
“Being here made me feel normal.”
“I didn’t think I could work with other people. Now I have confidence to talk with others and in myself.”
“I have acting skills I didn’t know I had. If I hadn’t done this, I wouldn’t have known I was capable.”
A Neurodiversity Support Lead shared:
“Thank you for giving our prisoners a voice — to show that being neurodivergent doesn’t have to stop you from achieving new things.”
Impact
Our work continues to support neurodivergent participants in feeling empowered, visible and part of something meaningful. It also helps raise awareness among staff and the wider population — contributing to a more inclusive, understanding custodial environment.
