Local help and support for parents and carers of children with Autism and ADHD

General support

For guidance, training, and chances to connect with other parent carers

• Amaze supports families in Brighton & Hove and East Sussex
• Brighton and Hove Parent Carers’ Council is a forum for parent carers of children with additional needs who work to help improve services and support
• For parent carers of children and young people waiting for, undergoing, or after assessment, for autism, ADHD, and related conditions, the Amaze ND Navigation Service offers telephone support, information, resources, and workshops.

Managing behaviour, sleep, and health concerns

• Children’s Speech and Language Therapy helps with speech, language, communication, and swallowing.
  • West Sussex and Brighton and Hove: Sussex Community Children's Speech and Language Therapy Service.
  • West Sussex and Brighton and Hove: University Hospitals Sussex Children's Speech and Language Services.
• Sleep support services can help if your child has trouble sleeping.
• The Health and Care Passport is a quick way to give health and social care staff important info about your child’s needs.

Your child’s sensory needs and environment

• Amaze factsheets
• National Autistic Society information
• Think ADHD information

Education and school support

Every school has a SENCo to help with special educational needs

• For help with school-related issues, contact Brighton and Hove SENDIASS
• For autism support in schools, go to Autism Spectrum Condition Support Service.
• For ADHD support in schools, go to Inclusion Support Service

Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)

An EHCP provides extra support for children with higher needs. You can apply if your child needs more help than the usual services provide.

• Getting an EHCP in Brighton and Hove
• Advice on EHCPs from Brighton and Hove SENDIASS

Emotional and mental health support

If your child finds school hard because of anxiety or emotional reasons, support is available:

• Information for Brighton and Hove parents
• The Children not in school fact sheet on Emotional Based School Avoidance for tips about coping with school avoidance, from Amaze.
• School avoidance and mental health information for parent carers from Young Minds.

Parent groups and peer support

Parent groups and peer support can connect you with others who understand what you're going through. They help you share ideas, feel heard and find support.

• Regular online and in-person support groups across Brighton & Hove and East Sussex, with Amaze.
• Link with other parents of autistic children and young people, with Mascot.