Northumbria Police officer PC Kelly Rooks joins Policing TV to share her personal and professional journey as a neurodivergent officer – from frontline policing to becoming the force’s first Neurodiversity & Wellbeing Officer. The conversation explores the strengths of neurodivergent individuals in policing, emphasizing their problem-solving abilities, data pattern recognition, and communication skills
Now a Talent Acquisition Officer, Kelly explains how neurodiversity training, reasonable adjustments and a needs-led approach are helping officers thrive, doubling the number of staff who feel able to identify as neurodivergent or disabled, and shaping a more inclusive future for policing – including a new work experience programme for schools from 2026.
Takeaways
- Neurodivergent individuals excel in problem-solving and data pattern recognition.
- Neurodiversity covers autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and more.
- Practical, people-focused policing can play to neurodivergent strengths.
- Northumbria created policing’s first Neurodiversity & Wellbeing Officer role.
- Self-declared neurodivergent/disabled staff rose from 4.2% to 10.6%.
- A needs-led, not label-led, approach drives better adjustments.
- Policing should reflect the diversity of the community served.
- New schools work-experience programme will showcase roles beyond the uniform.
- Curiosity and compassion in communication improve policing and public trust.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Policing TV and Guest Introduction
01:00 How Kelly Rooks Got into Policing
02:11 What is Neurodiversity
04:19 Breaking the Silence Award
05:16: Wha’s next for Kelly Rooks
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