The Guddi Way Screen in Judicial Courts

Brain injury currently receives relatively little recognition in the criminal justice system. It’s also estimated that the rates of brain injury are three times higher for Indigenous Australians who are incarcerated than non-indigenous Australians*.  

These statistics make brain injury a key concern in our prisons, as we know living with a brain injury can have unseen impacts on how people think and their cognitive behaviours.  

*AIHW (2022), Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Health of people in prison. Canberra: AIHW, Australian Government 

Identifying cognitive difficulties due to possible brain injuries prior to sentencing can have a critical impact on acknowledging the support a person needs to minimise reoffending and to improve compliance with court conditions.  

Screening for a brain injury can also have a positive impact on sentencing outcomes as brain injuries intersect with many mental health issues and trauma – which all have an undeniable impact on an individual.  

People with a brain injury often have difficulties accessing employment, housing, health care, as well as creating positive connections within community. All of these are important protective factors against reoffending. Understanding and recognising the impact of a brain injury for a person can help to break the cycle of their offending. 

The word ‘Guddi’ means ‘Come Home, Come Heal, Come Rest’ in the traditional language of the Kuku Yalanji peoples of Far North Queensland.