Local Healthwatch volunteer helps improve ADHD support
Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees’ report on care for ADHD showed the difference local residents can make by sharing their experiences.
What were the problems with the information available on ADHD?
While waiting for her ADHD diagnosis, Stockton-on-Tees resident Larissa Bennett tried to find support online.
But she found the information wasn’t written in a way that was easy for someone with ADHD to understand. She also struggled to find or access support while she waited.
“The symptoms of ADHD can often lead to isolation as it’s quite often a struggle to maintain relationships. Therefore, mental health issues can develop through lack of support during a crucial time.”
— Larissa Bennett, Community Champion, Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees
If the right support had been available earlier, Larissa felt she might not have had the struggles she did with her mental health.
What did people with ADHD say about their needs?
Larissa spoke with her local Healthwatch about her experience, joining them as a volunteer “Community Champion”. Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees reached out to people in the community with ADHD, carrying out surveys, focus groups, drop-in sessions, and one-to-one interviews.
They found the feedback echoed Larissa’s story. People talked about the need for a better understanding of ADHD and the lack of support available. They also shared some of the things they did or would find helpful, such as the support of like-minded people who could help them feel less isolated.
How is this work improving awareness and support for ADHD?
Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees were able to use the experiences people shared with them to make recommendations for how to better support people with ADHD.
These included suggestions for better communication, awareness training for professionals, and more widely available peer and community support. Their report will help inform the future planning and delivery of services, as well as increase understanding of the condition.
Meanwhile, in recognition of her tireless efforts to raise awareness of what it’s like to live with ADHD, Larissa won a local “Volunteer of the Year” award. Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees are supporting Larissa in developing a peer support group for those awaiting diagnosis, and their families, friends, and carers.
They are also working with people with ADHD to create accessible information outlining reasonable adjustments to support people with the condition in healthcare settings, schools and workplaces.
Want to know more about Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees’ work?
You can read their report on their website.
