RCMP Detachments throughout the South Okanagan Similkameen are participating in the Autism Decal Project.
This initiative is a joint effort, in partnership with the Child & Youth Development Centre and designed to foster better understanding and safer interactions between law enforcement and neurodiverse individuals, according to the Community Policing - South Okanagan Similkameen.
“This project, launched in partnership with the BC Association of Chiefs of Police, the BC Law Enforcement Diversity Network, and the Pacific Autism Family Network, involves the distribution of decals that can be placed on vehicles and homes to indicate the presence of an autistic or neurodiverse individual,” explained a Facebook post.
The public can now obtain a brightly coloured sticker to place on their car or home, indicating to RCMP officers that someone inside may be non-verbal or experience heightened anxiety. This initiative is designed to help officers recognize when they may be interacting with a person with Autism or a neurodiverse condition, allowing them to change their communication approach.
In situations where officers must respond quickly, having this initial understanding is beneficial to ensure everyone’s safety, while also respecting and supporting the unique needs of individuals, explained Superintendent Beth McAndie of the Penticton RCMP.
“The goal is to create a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone within our community,” said Supt. McAndie. “By increasing awareness, we hope to better serve individuals with Autism and Neurodiversity, ensuring their unique needs are recognized and respected.”
Families and individuals interested in obtaining decals can do so at local RCMP Detachments and OSNS in Penticton.
For more information on the Autism Decal Project, visit the BCACP website. https://www.bcacp.ca/bc-law-enforcement-diversity-network/.
