Simon Steel

I first met Simon on a police training course run by Creased Puddle where we were both delivering associate work to help police achieve best evidence, and safeguard neurodivergent witnesses, suspects and victims. It was so inspirational for me to hear about Simon’s extremely successful career in the police, which in many ways was achieved because of the detail-orientated positive autistic traits, not in spite of being autistic. I think this is always a very common misconception when celebrating autistic achievements; achievements are largely because of the infinitely positive autistic traits, as opposed to conquering these traits.

Simon achieved the high rank of Detective Super Intendant, and was head of a large major crime unit. You can watch Simon’s work as SIO on a case in a Channel 4 Documentary here - ‘Catching a Killer: The Search for Natalie Hemming’

‘Hi, my name is Simon Steel, I am married and have 4 children. I was recently diagnosed as autistic in my fifties following what is becoming an ever-increasing, familiar route of parent seeking an assessment having gone through the process with one of their children. I have enjoyed a successful career in policing, reaching the rank of Detective Superintendent, and was the head of a large major crime unit, leading many homicide investigations. My attention to detail was clearly a strength in that field. I fulfilled many detective roles, spending time in the regional organised crime team, working within the cyber-crime team, along with working in the counter corruption unit. I also developed the forces policies, particularly in protecting vulnerable people. I am now an independent safeguarding chair and author , I also work in the voluntary sector for an autism charity. I am passionate about sport, and I am the chairman of a rugby league club.’