In 2023 both of our teenagers, and myself, were diagnosed with Autism and ADHD. Despite having been a youth worker for over 20 years, I didn't know much about Autism or ADHD beyond reading "A Curious Incident of a Dog in the Night Time". So, I began avidly researching to learn as much as I could; partly to help our own children and partly to be able to help others. I undertook a level 2 course in Understanding Autism. This helped me to understand a lot about my self and my own childhood as well as my children. It took me about 6 months to complete, but I would really recommend it to anyone wanting to deepen their understanding. 

​

We found it so difficult to find the appropriate help and support that our daughter needed, and kept getting passed from one agency to another. It was a battle, but I made notes of everything I learned along the way. It wasn't long before I began coming across other parents in the same situation as we were in, and who were feeling completely alone and abandoned, not knowing what to do or where to turn. So, after some reseach, networking and planning, in January 2024, the Parenting Neurodiverse Teens support group was started. We currrently have a Facebook Page, which is open to any parents with neurodiverse teenagers to join, and we have a WhatsApp group for parents who are local to Stratford-upon-Avon. We also hold a face-to-face get together once every two months for those who are able to make it. 

​

Many parents have fed-back to us that they are grateful that the group is there, as it has helped them to realise that they are not alone in their experience and struggles, and has given them people to talk with who really do understand what it is like to parent a neurodiverse child/teenager. It has been a burden shared and eased for many, and the group offers a forum for parents to ask questions, and share resources and helpful tips that they have picked up along the way. 

If you are interested in finding out more, please feel free to CONTACT US

​

If you are interested in joining the Facebook group, please click on the QR code below and follow the link, or scan it using your mobile phone camera.