ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Our aims:

To provide diagnostic assessment and ongoing support/management for children/young people with possible ADHD and Developmental Comorbidities.

It is known that one per cent of school age population have severe ADHD. Those with severe conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder or major family breakdown should be referred to CAMHS for assessment and treatment. However at least 50 per cent will have developmental comorbidities including Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Language Disorder or General or Specific Learning Difficulties. These benefit from Child Development Services.

This service is provided for:

Children and Young People aged 3 to 16 with ADHD and Developmental Comorbidities.

How the service works:

Clinics are currently at the Ryegate Centre. Initial assessment interview is followed by information collection from home and school which may include a school observation by a specialist Nurse. We also arrange access to group and individual behaviour management sessions covering ADHD, parenting skills for a child with attentional problems and anger management.

Follow up clinics discuss whether or not the child or young person has ADHD and other comorbid difficulties and management of these at home and school. Evidence based Management also includes the use of medication in some cases.

Clinics monitor medication. Some review clinics are nurse led. GPs are involved in Shared Care protocols to provide review if the child/young person is stable on medication. Clinical Psychology may be involved in cognitive assessment, behaviour management and assessment of comorbidity. We also involve Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy as needed for DCD and speech and sanguage therapy if language difficulties are likely.

We aim to liaise with schools and other education services and with social services when needed.
 

Access to the service:

Referral is via GP with support from school. Some behaviour management is available in schools prior to referral.

Research emphasis:

We have a strong interest in ADHD research including the use of medication and longterm outcomes.