Tell us what you think of Families in Partnership
We would be grateful to learn from what you think of the Families in Partnership newsletter – this minute-long survey will help us improve the newsletter for the community 👉
A new website to support child neurodiversity
Published
Gloucestershire parents and carers who may be considering accessing an autism or ADHD assessment for their child can now access a new website which offers guidance and recommended resources.
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinators (SENDCos) have worked together with parents, carers and NHS colleagues to develop the website for Gloucestershire.
The website, which launched in Neurodiversity Week (18-24 March) aims to provide valuable information for families at the point when differences are first identified, offering advice, guidance and strategies to parents and carers.
The website is also designed to give those considering an assessment a greater understanding of the process that takes place and how they can approach this conversation with professionals.
Dr Victoria Thurston, Clinical Psychologist and Lead for the Social Communication and Autism Assessment Service (SCAAS) and CAMHS Neuro in Gloucestershire, said the website is a trusted resource, designed to support parents and carers. She said:
“We know it can be confusing and sometimes worrying if you spot differences in your child, there is a lot of information out there but not all of it is clinically safe or helpful.
“We hope this site will help parents and carers develop skills that can shape the way they communicate with their child and understand more about how to support their child at the earliest opportunity.”
Dr Mala Ubhi, NHS Gloucestershire’s Clinical Lead for Digital, Learning Disabilities, Autism and Mental Health, said:
“We understand how important and impactful a diagnosis involving neurodivergence can be for the young person, their parents and carers.
“It is also important to note that a diagnosis of Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder – or ADHD – is not a requirement for the young person to receive support. We hope our new site provides the information, reassurance, and signposting parents and carers need to make informed decisions for their children.”
The website can be found at https://support-child-neurodiversity-southwest.nhs.uk/