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Ethnic Minorities & Youth support Team Wales

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Ethnic Minorities & Youth support Team Wales

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Our aim is to provide ethnic minority people with the opportunity to reach their fullest potential through holistic, targeted, and culturally sensitive programmes covering education, employment, health, community safety and cohesion. All underpinned by a vision where everyone can contribute, participate, and thrive in Wales.

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Ethnic Minorities and Youth Support Team Wales

Supporting Ethnic Minority People across Wales

Ethnic Minorities & Youth Support Team was set up in 2005 by a group of ethnic minority young people in Swansea. It aimed to fill a gap in provision for young BME people aged 11-25 by providing a targeted, culturally sensitive and holistic support service to meet their needs.

Since then, EYST has expanded its mission and vision to also meet the needs of BME young people, families and individuals including refugees and asylum-seekers living in Wales

About EYST

Our Achievements

Since our establishment we are proud to have had many highlights and achievements including 'Most Admired Organisation' at the WCVA Third Sector Awards Cymru and Best Youth Group in the CWVYS Getting Together awards

View our Achievements

Our Projects

Our aim is to support BME young people to reach their full potential through a holistic, targeted and culturally sensitive youth programme including qualified youth workers, innovative youth activities and a youth and community centre.

View our Projects

Keep up to date with
our monthly activities

Grateful acknowledgement of our funders & supporters

EYST is an award-winning and unique organisation set up in 2005 by and for BME people living in Wales.

Registered Charity No: 1152486

Company No: 06709767

info@eyst.org.uk
01792 466980

Copyright © 2023 Ethnic Minorities & Youth Support Team. All rights reserved.

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EYST - Ethnic Minorities and Youth Support Team Wales - Supporting BME people living in Wales.

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Ethnic Minorities and Youth Support Team Wales Ethnic Minorities & Youth Support Team was set up in 2005 by a group of ethnic minority young people in Swansea. It aimed to fill a gap in provision for young BME people aged 11-25 by providing a targeted, culturally sensitive and holistic support service to meet their needs.

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We work with a number of partner organisations in Gwent to make sure you get the support you need.

Find out more about some of the services and organisations we work with:

Gwent victims' hub

New Pathways offers a range of counselling, advocacy and support services for women, men, children and young people affected by rape and sexual abuse.

A national charity which supports child victims of crime up to the age of 18.

Provides a range of key services to the LGBT community across Gwent including information, training, support and advocacy.

Provides a range of services to help and support older people, their families and carers.

Mental Health and Well Being Advisor

Specialist help and advice for people with mental health issues within Connect Gwent.
Tel: 0300 123 21 33

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If you've been affected by crime or a traumatic event, you can call Victim Support Gwent on 0300 303 5638.

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Support materials that teachers, youth workers, parents, carers and police forces can use in their collective mission to guide young people away from knives.

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Get support materials that teachers, youth workers, parents and police forces can use in their mission to guide young people away from knives.

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If you are planning a pregnancy, there are several things you need to know and many things you can do to help your pregnancy go as smoothly as possible.

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You can refer to the School Nursing Team with concerns around Vaping. 

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You can refer to the School Nursing Team with concerns around Vaping. 

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SN Secondary SPOA A4 Poster (Eng and Cym) 25.9.23 welsh

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Many children experience nightmares and night terrors, but most grow out of them. They don't cause any long-term psychological harm to your child.
Night terrors are very different from nightmares.

A child having night terrors may scream and thrash around, and may not recognise you if you try to comfort them.

This behaviour occurs on waking abruptly from deep, non-dream sleep.

Your child won't be fully awake during these episodes and will have no memory of it the next morning.

Nightmares occur from dream sleep (REM sleep). Your child may wake up from the nightmare and, depending on their age, may be able to remember and describe the bad dream to you.

Both night terrors and nightmares in children are described in more detail below, along with advice about what you should do.

Night terrors

Night terrors are common in children aged between 3 and 8 years old.

A child who experiences night terrors may scream, shout and thrash around in extreme panic, and may even jump out of bed.

Their eyes will be open, but they're not fully awake.

The episodes usually occur in the early part of the night, continue for several minutes (up to 15 minutes), and sometimes occur more than once during the night.

Why they happen

Night terrors are more common in children with a family history of night terrors or sleepwalking behaviour.

A night terror attack may be triggered by anything that:

increases how much deep sleep your child has, such as tiredness, fever or certain types of medication

makes your child more likely to wake from deep sleep, such as excitement, anxiety, sudden noise or a full bladder

What you should do

The best thing to do if your child is having an episode of night terrors is to stay calm and wait until they calm down.

Don't intervene or interact with them, unless they're not safe. Night terrors can be frightening to witness, but they don't harm your child.

You shouldn't attempt to wake your child when they're having an episode. They may not recognise you and may become more agitated if you try to comfort them.

Your child won't remember the episode the next morning, but it may still help to have a general chat to find out if anything is worrying them and triggering the episodes.

It'll also help if they have a relaxing bedtime routine.

Try not to discuss the episodes with your child in a way that worries them as this may increase their anxiety.

If the night terror episodes are frequent and occur at a specific time every night, you may find that waking your child breaks the cycle.

Wake your child 15 minutes before the anticipated time of the episode every night for 7 days.

This can disrupt their sleep pattern enough to stop the episodes without affecting sleep quality.

When you should seek help

Most children eventually grow out of night terrors. But talk to your GP if they're occurring several times a night or most nights.

Your GP will be able to check whether something that's easily treatable is causing the episodes.

For example, large tonsils could be causing breathing problems at night and waking your child.

In a small number of children who have frequent episodes of night terrors, referral to a specialist service may be needed.

Nightmares

Nightmares are common in children aged 3 to 6 years old. Most children grow out of them.

Nightmares usually occur later in the night and cause strong feelings of terror, fear, distress or anxiety.

Your child may wake up and be able to remember and describe the dream to you.

Nightmares in children can be caused by a frightening experience, such as watching a scary film, or by something that's worrying them.

What you should do

Talk to your child to find out whether anything is worrying them that could be triggering their nightmares.

As with night terrors, making sure your child has a relaxing bedtime routine will also help.

Take your child to see your GP if they're having repeated nightmares (a series of nightmares with a recurring theme).

If your child's nightmares are being caused by a stressful past experience, they may need counselling.

Nightmares in adults

Nightmares and night terrors are usually associated with children, but they can sometimes also affect adults.

There are many possible causes of adult nightmares, but they're often linked to stress, trauma or an existing mental health condition.

They can also occur after taking certain types of medication, such as antidepressants.

Sometimes a condition that affects sleep can be a trigger for night terrors.

For example:

Nightmares don't usually cause any physical harm, but they can be disturbing or upsetting. They may also prevent you getting a good night's sleep.

See your GP if you're having regular nightmares that are affecting your sleep and day-to-day life.

If your nightmares are caused by a particular traumatic event, your GP may recommend psychological treatment, such as counselling.

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Many children experience nightmares and night terrors, but most grow out of them. They don't cause any long-term psychological harm to your child. Night terrors are very different from nightmares. A child having night terrors may scream and thrash around, and may not recognise you if you try to comfort them.

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Children and Young People Occupational Therapy Service

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Children and Young People Occupational Therapy Service

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Children and Young People Occupational Therapy Service

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Children's Mental Health Week takes place from 3rd-9th February 2025

Click on the following links to find helpful resources and information:

About Place2Be's Children's Mental Health Week

Children's Mental Health Week | KS1 Topic | Ages 5-7 - BBC Bitesize

Children's Mental Health Week | Age 7-11 | KS2 Primary Topic - BBC Bitesize

Children's Mental Health Week 2025 - My Voice Matters

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Children's Mental Health Week 2024

Children's Mental Health Week 2024 will take place from 5-11 February 2024. This year's theme is 'My Voice Matters'.

My Voice Matters is about empowering children and young people by providing them with the tools they need to express themselves. During Children's Mental Health Week we want all children and young people, whoever they are, and wherever they are in the world, to be able to say - and believe - "My Voice Matters".

We have free resources available to download so that everyone can take part in Children's Mental Health Week. Take a look and see what's available for schools, families and how you can take part and raise vital funds for children's mental health.

Get our resources for schools

Take part and raise money for Place2Be

About Children's Mental Health Week

Place2Be launched the first-ever Children's Mental Health Week in 2015 to empower, equip and give a voice to every child in the UK. It has since become a well recognised event, with hundreds of schools and colleges participating across the UK (and beyond!) as well as hundreds of children, parents and carers.

Every year for the week, Place2Be's expert team develops free resources to help people participate in the week devoted to children's mental health. Our highly adaptable Children's Mental Health Week resources include things like:

assembly guides

group activities

show and tell activities

top tips

fundraising packs

posters.

We also provide our resources in the Welsh language for schools participating in Wales.

Visit our official Children's Mental Health Week site

Previous Children's Mental Health Weeks

Take a look back at our Children's Mental Health Week themes and resources from previous years.

2023

Our theme for Children's Mental Health Week 2023 was Let's Connect. During the week, which ran from 6-12 February 2023, we encouraged people to make healthy, rewarding, and meaningful connections.

You can still access our free resources from 2023, which were all built around the theme of expressing yourself.

2022

Our theme for Children's Mental Health Week 2022 was Growing Together. During the week, which ran from 1-7 February 2022, we explored the different ways we can grow and help others to do so, too.

You can still access our free resources from 2022, which were all built around the theme of expressing yourself.

2021

Our theme for Children's Mental Health Week 2021 was Express Yourself. During the week, which ran from 1-7 February 2021, we highlighted the importance of expressing yourself and encouraged people to explore different ways we can share our thoughts, feelings and ideas.

You can still access our free resources from 2021, which were all built around the theme of expressing yourself.

2020

Our theme for Children's Mental Health Week 2020 was Find Your Brave. During the week, which ran from 3-9 February 2020, we asked people to think about what makes them feel brave. We highlighted that bravery comes in all shapes and sizes and is different for everyone and that finding your Brave can:

build your confidence

grow your self-esteem

make you feel good about yourself.

You can still access our free resources from 2020, which were all built around the theme of finding your brave.

Read out how HRH The Princess Of Wales supported in 2020

Get in touch about Children's Mental Health Week

If you have any questions about Children's Mental Health Week, please call us on 0207 923 5506 or email events@place2be.org.uk.

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Children's Mental Health Week - Place2Be

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The year's Children's Mental Health Week took place on 7-13 February 2022. This year's theme was Growing Together.

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The National Crime Agency's CEOP Education team aim to help protect children and young people from online child sexual abuse.

We do this through our education programme, providing training, resources and information to professionals working with children, young people and their families.

I am:

Respecting me, you, us: building healthy relationships and creating positive cultures is a CEOP Education resource for 12 -14 year olds developed in association with clinical psychologist, Dr. Elly Hanson.

Under 18 and worried about online sexual abuse?
To report, click to visit the CEOP Safety Centre.

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The CEOP Education programme from the National Crime Agency’s CEOP Education Team aims to protect children and young people aged 4-18 from online child sexual abuse.

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Silver Cloud - Supporting an anxious Child or Teen.

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Silver Cloud - Supporting an anxious Child or Teen.

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Aneurin Bevan Healthier Together Website

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Aneurin Bevan Healthier Together Website

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Improving the quality of care for children and young people in Aneurin Bevan University Health Board

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Building Connections | Support service for young people | NSPCC Learning

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This online service empowers young people aged up to 19 to find a way through loneliness. Young people work through the 11 week programme with a trained befriender who guides and supports them each step of the way.

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SNAP Cymru is a national charity, unique to Wales, founded in 1986. Its main aim is to advance the education of people in Wales and support their inclusion.

SNAP Cymru offers free and independent information, advice and support to help get the right education for children and young people with all kinds of special educational needs (SEN)/additional learning needs(ALN)and disabilities.  We give advice and support on a range of issues including assessments, individual education plans, statements of special educational needs, bullying, school attendance, exclusion, health and social care provision and discrimination.

We also provide advocacy, disagreement resolution, discrimination advice, advocacy and training for young people, parents and professionals.

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Our team are based in a variety of different offices across Wales, and we are funded to deliver advice across 22 local authorities. We will make every effort to ensure that no child and family in Wales is left without support, if you'd like more information on this, feel free to contact us via our Helpline 0808 801 0608, someone will be able to advise you further.

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Our team are based in a variety of different offices across Wales, and we are funded to deliver advice across 22 local authorities. We will make every effort to ensure that no child and family in Wales is left without support, if you'd like more information on this, feel free to contact us via our Helpline 0808 801 0608, someone will be able to advise you further.

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Whether you want to understand more about how you're feeling, get information about a mental health condition or find support, our guides can help

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You can call NHS 111 and select Option 2 if you or someone you know needs urgent mental health care, but it's not life threatening.  Mental Health 111 (Option 2) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is free to call from a mobile (even when the caller has no credit left) or from a landline.

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A mental health crisis often means that you no longer feel able to cope or be in control of your situation.

You may feel great emotional distress or anxiety, cannot cope with day-to-day life or work, think about suicide or self-harm, or experience hallucinations and hearing voices.

A crisis can also be the result of an underlying medical condition, such as confusion or delusions caused by an infection, overdose, illicit drugs or intoxication with alcohol. Confusion may also be associated with dementia.

Whether you experience a sudden deterioration of an existing mental health problem or are experiencing problems for the first time, you'll need immediate expert assessment to identify the best course of action and stop you getting worse.

Where can I get urgent help?

If you have already been given a Crisis Line number from a health professional, call it.

If you're under the care of a mental health team and have a specific care plan that states who to contact when you need urgent care, follow this plan.

Call NHS 111 (Option 2)

You can call NHS 111 and select Option 2 if you or someone you know needs urgent mental health care, but it's not life threatening.

Mental Health 111 (Option 2) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is free to call from a mobile (even when the caller has no credit left) or from a landline.

The 111 Option 2 service can help you if:

you have an existing mental health problem and your symptoms get worse

you experience a mental health problem for the first time

someone has self-harmed but it does not appear to be life threatening, or they're talking about wanting to self-harm

a person shows signs of possible dementia

a person is experiencing domestic violence or physical, sexual or emotional abuse

Samaritans

Samaritans has a free to call service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, if you want to talk to someone in confidence. Call them on 116 123.

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A mental health crisis often means that you no longer feel able to cope or be in control of your situation. You may feel great emotional distress or anxiety, cannot cope with day-to-day life or work, think about suicide or self-harm, or experience hallucinations and hearing voices.

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Although these resources were developed primarily for parents of children with special educational needs or disabilities, the principles and techniques are the same for all children.

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The Gwent Carers Hub (funded by the Gwent Regional Partnership Board)  is situated in the heart of Pontypool town and offers unpaid carers a safe space to talk about you and your caring role.

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Our Gwent Carers Hub is situated in the heart of Pontypool town and offers unpaid carers a safe space to talk about you and your caring role.

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Place2Be is a children's mental health charity with over 25 years' experience working with pupils, families and staff in UK schools.

We provide mental health support in schools through one-to-one and group counselling using tried and tested methods backed by research. We also offer expert training and professional qualifications.

Why it's important

1 in 6

children and young people have a diagnosable mental health problem, and many continue to have these problems into adulthood.

50%

of those with lifetime mental health problems first experience symptoms by the age of 14.

1 in 10
boys aged 5-19 with a mental health condition are excluded in some form from school

Find out more about our work

How we help

Mental health support in schools

Our in-school mental health service supports the wellbeing of pupils, families and staff.
Find out more

Training and workshops for schools

We provide mental health training to support school leaders, teachers and other staff to develop mentally healthy schools.
Find out more

Counselling training and placements

Gain experience and skills with our child counselling training and placements.
Find out more

Place2Be is part of our school family. It is more than an office, more than a therapy room and more than a collection of counsellors.

Glyn Ellis - Headteacher, Haslingden Primary School

My daughter had become a different person - one we didn't recognise - but since counselling we see signs of our old loving daughter coming back.

Parent

If you have problems or worries you get a chance to talk to a person you trust. When I grow up I want to help children like Place2Be helps children.

Eight-year-old girl

Your support makes it possible

Thousands of vulnerable children and families depend on our work every single day. We simply cannot reach them without your help. There are so many ways to lend your support.

Place2Be's counselling service in primary schools has the potential to return £8 to society by improving long-term outcomes for each child.

Make a donation

How you can help

Fundraise for us

Raise money to transform children and young people's mental health. Browse ideas, tips and advice.

Get fundraising inspiration

Take part in an event

Run, cycle, walk. Trek to great heights or tackle some muddy obstacles. Take a look at our fundraising events.

Take on an event

Partner with us

See how your organisation can help us to support more children, families and school staff across the UK.

Find out more

Our impact

In the last school year

5,875

pupils were supported through one-to-one counselling

27,995

pupils booked their own appointments to speak to our mental health professional

After one-to-one counselling with Place2Be

68%

of pupils caused fewer problems for the teacher or class, according to teachers

79%

of pupils with severe difficulties showed an improvement in wellbeing, according to parents and carers

83%

of pupils with the highest level of need show an improvement in wellbeing, according to children and young people themselves

Place2Be: mental health support in schools

Hear from children and teachers about the impact of Place2Be.

News & blogs

Letter to the PM: Suicide and self-harm prevention in the Online Safety Bill

We're urging the Prime Minister to ensure that the regulation of harmful content is retained in the Online Safety Bill.

Read more

Promoting wellbeing to a new generation of teachers in Scotland

Kathleen Forbes, Place2Be Consultant Clinician at the University of Edinburgh, on promoting wellbeing to student teachers

Read more

Sign up to our newsletter

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Improving children's mental health in schools - Place2Be

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We provide mental health support in schools through one-to-one and group counselling using tried and tested methods backed by research. We also offer expert training and professional qualifications. 1 in 6 children and young people have a diagnosable mental health problem, and many continue to have these problems into adulthood.

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Learning Disability - Autism - Down's Syndrome

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Mencap is a UK charity for people with a learning disability. We support their families and carers, too. We want the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

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The Mix - Essential support for under 25s

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The Mix: 0808 808 4994 - Free information and support for under 25s in the UK. Get advice about sex, relationships, drugs, mental health, money & jobs.

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In 1970, the charity's founders, Katharine and Harold Fisher established The Phobics' Society from their home in Chorlton, Manchester, as a direct result of Katharine's personal experience of agoraphobia and with the sole aim of getting support in place for others in the same situation.

Since then, we've become a nationwide organisation but we still have the same basic aims. Whether you have anxiety, stress, anxiety-based depression or a phobia that's affecting your daily life, we're here to help you. And we're fully supported by an expert team of medical advisors.

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Anxiety UK - National charity helping people with Anxiety

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In 1970, the charity's founders, Katharine and Harold Fisher established The Phobics' Society from their home in Chorlton, Manchester, as a direct result of Katharine's personal experience of agoraphobia and with the sole aim of getting support in place for others in the same situation.

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Provide advice regarding Homelessness, Renting, Eviction, Debt, Housing repairs and your rights, Mortgage Repossessions & Housing advice for people under 25 years old

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Struggling with an eating disorder? Caring for someone who is? Beat is here to support you.

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This website places cookies on your computer to improve your experience. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. For more details, see our privacy policy. I agree

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The British Dyslexia Association is the voice for the 10% of the population that are dyslexic

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Children's Centre Psychology promotes the emotional wellbeing of children with additional needs and their families, who access the Children's Centres for support with their developmental delays and/or disabilities

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We're here for you, whatever's on your mind. We'll support you. Guide you. Help you make decisions that are right for you.

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Talk to your GP, health visitor, or your child's school Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo) if you think your child has developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD), which is also known as Dyspraxia or if you think your child has Dyslexia.

Talk your child's school Additional Learning Needs Coordinator (ALNCo) if you think your child has neurodevelopmental concerns (Autism/ADHD).

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If you have been affected by rape, sexual abuse or sexual assault we are here for you.

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New Pathways Rape crisis and sexual abuse support services.

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Rape crisis and sexual abuse support services for men, women, and children. If you have experienced sexual violence, call us on 01685 379310.

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F.E.A.S.T: We Are Here Because We've Been There

You've found F.E.A.S.T: the global organization of and serving parents like you around the world. We are here to help you understand your son or daughter's eating disorder, support you in helping them get appropriate treatment, and get you the information you need to help them recover and thrive.

This website is about you. Your learning, your confidence, your resources. No two families have the same needs or path, but we know what kind of information and skills help families be resilient and strong through the process. We can help you discover your unique toolkit.

We believe in families. We believe in full recovery. We believe information is power and good treatment saves lives. Welcome to our community.

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FEAST: Support and resources for families affected by eating disorders

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FEAST is a global support and education community of and for parents of those with eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and more.

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How to help someone with eating disorder

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Read about what to do if a friend or relative has an eating disorder, what the treatment involves, and how you can support them.

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Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust

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Selective mutism (SM) is used as a term to describe children and young people (CYP) who are able to talk comfortably to some people, such as family members and close friends, but are silent or unable to talk freely when other people are present. There is no guarantee that CYP who have SM will overco…

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Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder where a person is unable to speak in certain social situations, such as with classmates at school or to relatives they do not see very often.
It usually starts during childhood and, if left untreated, can persist into adulthood.

A child or adult with selective mutism does not refuse or choose not to speak at certain times, they're literally unable to speak.

The expectation to talk to certain people triggers a freeze response with feelings of anxiety and panic, and talking is impossible.

In time, the person may learn to anticipate the situations that provoke this distressing reaction and do all they can to avoid them.

However, people with selective mutism are able to speak freely to certain people, such as close family and friends, when nobody else is around to trigger the freeze response.

Selective mutism affects about 1 in 140 young children. It's more common in girls and children who have recently migrated from their country of birth.

Signs of selective mutism

Selective mutism can start at any age, but most often starts in early childhood, between age 2 and 4. It's often first noticed when the child starts to interact with people outside their family, such as when they begin nursery or school.

The main warning sign is the marked contrast in the child's ability to engage with different people, characterised by a sudden stillness and frozen facial expression when they're expected to talk to someone who's outside their comfort zone.

They may avoid eye contact and appear:

nervous, uneasy or socially awkward

rude, disinterested or sulky

clingy

shy and withdrawn

stiff, tense or poorly co-ordinated

stubborn or aggressive, having temper tantrums when they get home from school, or getting angry when questioned by parents

More confident children with selective mutism can use gestures to communicate - for example, they may nod for "yes" or shake their head for "no".

But more severely affected children tend to avoid any form of communication - spoken, written or gestured.

Some children may manage to respond with a few words, or they may speak in an altered voice, such as a whisper.

What causes selective mutism

Experts regard selective mutism as a fear ( phobia) of talking to certain people. The cause is not always clear, but it's known to be associated with anxiety.

The child will usually have a tendency to anxiety and have difficulty taking everyday events in their stride.

Find out more about anxiety in children.

Many children become too distressed to speak when separated from their parents and transfer this anxiety to the adults who try to settle them.

If they have a speech and language disorder or hearing problem, it can make speaking even more stressful.

Some children have trouble processing sensory information such as loud noise and jostling from crowds - a condition known as sensory integration dysfunction.

This can make them "shut down" and be unable to speak when overwhelmed in a busy environment. Again, their anxiety can transfer to other people in that environment.

When mutism occurs as a symptom of post-traumatic stress, it follows a very different pattern and the child suddenly stops talking in environments where they previously had no difficulty.

Another misconception is that a child with selective mutism is controlling or manipulative, or has autism. There's no relationship between selective mutism and autism, although a child may have both.

Diagnosing selective mutism

Left untreated, selective mutism can lead to isolation, low self-esteem and social anxiety disorder. It can continue into adolescence and adulthood if not managed.

Diagnosis in children

A child can successfully overcome selective mutism if it's diagnosed at an early age and appropriately managed.

It's important for selective mutism to be recognised early by families and schools so they can work together to reduce a child's anxiety. Staff in early years settings and schools may receive training so they're able to provide appropriate support.

If you suspect your child has selective mutism and help is not available, or there are additional concerns - for example, the child struggles to understand instructions or follow routines - speak to a GP and ask them to refer you to a local specialist service for a formal diagnosis.

You can also contact a speech and language therapy clinic directly. Do not accept the opinion that your child will grow out of it or they are "just shy".

Your GP or local integrated care board (ICB) should be able to give you the telephone number of your nearest NHS speech and language therapy service or another specialist service that can help in your area.

Your child may also need to see a mental health professional or school educational psychologist.

The clinician may initially want to talk to you without your child present, so you can speak freely about any anxieties you have about your child's development or behaviour.

They'll want to find out whether there's a history of anxiety disorders in the family, and whether anything is causing distress, such as a disrupted routine or difficulty learning a second language. They'll also look at behavioural characteristics and take a full medical history.

A person with selective mutism may not be able to speak during their assessment, but the clinician should be prepared for this and be willing to find another way to communicate.

For example, they may encourage a child with selective mutism to communicate through their parents, or suggest that older children or adults write down their responses or use a computer. They may watch the child playing or watch a video of them speaking in a comfortable environment.

Diagnosis in adults

It's possible for adults to overcome selective mutism, although they may continue to experience the psychological and practical effects of spending years without social interaction or not being able to reach their academic or occupational potential.

Adults will ideally be seen by a mental health professional with access to support from a speech and language therapist or another knowledgeable professional.

Diagnosis guidelines

Selective mutism is diagnosed according to specific guidelines. These include observations about the person concerned as outlined:

they do not speak in specific situations, such as during school lessons or when they can be overheard in public

they can speak normally in situations where they feel comfortable, such as when they're alone with parents at home, or in their empty classroom or bedroom

their inability to speak to certain people has lasted for at least 1 month (2 months in a new setting)

their inability to speak interferes with their ability to function in that setting

their inability to speak is not better explained by another behavioural, mental or communication disorder

Associated difficulties

A child with selective mutism will often have other fears and social anxieties, and they may also have additional speech and language difficulties.

They're often wary of doing anything that draws attention to them because they think that by doing so, people will expect them to talk.

For example, a child may not do their best in class after seeing other children being asked to read out good work, or they may be afraid to change their routine in case this provokes comments or questions. Many have a general fear of making mistakes.

Accidents and urinary infections may result from being unable to ask to use the toilet and holding on for hours at a time. School-aged children may avoid eating and drinking throughout the day so they do not need to excuse themselves.

Children may have difficulty with homework assignments or certain topics because they're unable to ask questions in class.

Teenagers may not develop independence because they're afraid to leave the house unaccompanied. And adults may lack qualifications because they're unable to participate in college life or subsequent interviews.

Treating selective mutism

With appropriate handling and treatment, most children are able to overcome selective mutism. But the older they are when the condition is diagnosed, the longer it will take.

The effectiveness of treatment will depend on:

how long the person has had selective mutism

whether or not they have additional communication or learning difficulties or anxieties

the co-operation of everyone involved with their education and family life

Treatment does not focus on the speaking itself, but reducing the anxiety associated with speaking.

This starts by removing pressure on the person to speak. They should then gradually progress from relaxing in their school, nursery or social setting, to saying single words and sentences to one person, before eventually being able to speak freely to all people in all settings.

The need for individual treatment can be avoided if family and staff in early years settings work together to reduce the child's anxiety by creating a positive environment for them.

This means:

not letting the child know you're anxious

reassuring them that they'll be able to speak when they're ready

concentrating on having fun

praising all efforts the child makes to join in and interact with others, such as passing and taking toys, nodding and pointing

not showing surprise when the child speaks, but responding warmly as you would to any other child

As well as these environmental changes, older children may need individual support to overcome their anxiety.

Cognitive behavioural therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps a person focus on how they think about themselves, the world and other people, and how their perception of these things affects their thoughts and feelings. CBT also challenges fears and preconceptions through graded exposure.

Behavioural therapy

Behavioural therapy concentrates on helping combat current difficulties using a gradual step-by-step approach to help conquer fears.

Techniques

There are several techniques based on CBT and behavioural therapy that are useful in treating selective mutism. These can be used at the same time by individuals, family members and school or college staff, possibly under the guidance of a speech and language therapist or psychologist.

Graded exposure

In graded exposure, situations causing the least anxiety are tackled first. With realistic targets and repeated exposure, the anxiety associated with these situations decreases to a manageable level.

Older children and adults are encouraged to work out how much anxiety different situations cause, such as answering the phone or asking a stranger the time.

Stimulus fading

In stimulus fading, the person with selective mutism communicates at ease with someone, such as their parent, when nobody else is present.

Another person is gradually introduced into the situation and, once they're included in talking, the parent withdraws. The new person can introduce more people in the same way.

Shaping

Shaping involves using any technique that enables the person to gradually produce a response that's closer to the desired behaviour.

For example, starting with non-verbal communication, gradually moving to making eye contact, saying short words and then longer sentences and, finally, 2-way conversation.

Positive and negative reinforcement

Positive and negative reinforcement involves responding favourably to all forms of communication and not inadvertently encouraging avoidance and silence.

If the child is under pressure to talk, they'll experience great relief when the moment passes, which will strengthen their belief that talking is a negative experience.

Desensitisation

Desensitisation is a technique that involves reducing the person's sensitivity to other people hearing their voice by sharing voice or video recordings.

For example, email or instant messaging could progress to an exchange of voice recordings or voicemail messages, then more direct communication, such as telephone or Skype conversations.

You could also record your child at home and encourage them to watch or listen to themselves speaking.

Medicine

Medicine is only really appropriate for older children, teenagers and adults whose anxiety has led to depression and other problems.

Medicine should never be prescribed as an alternative to environmental changes and behavioural approaches. Though some health professionals recommend using a combination of medicine and behavioural therapies in adults with selective mutism.

However, antidepressants may be used alongside a treatment programme to decrease anxiety levels, particularly if previous attempts to engage the individual in treatment have failed.

Advice for parents

Do not pressurise or bribe your child to encourage them to speak.

Let your child know you understand they're scared to speak and have difficulty speaking at times. Tell them they can take small steps when they feel ready and reassure them that talking will get easier.

Do not praise your child publicly for speaking because this can cause embarrassment. Wait until you're alone with them and consider a special treat for their achievement.

Reassure your child that non-verbal communication, such as smiling and waving, is fine until they feel better about talking.

Do not avoid parties or family visits, but consider what environmental changes are necessary to make the situation more comfortable for your child.

Ask friends and relatives to give your child time to warm up at his or her own pace and focus on fun activities rather than getting them to talk.

As well as verbal reassurance, give them love, support and patience.

Getting help and support

Teenagers and adults with selective mutism can find information and support at iSpeak and the Facebook group SM SpaceCafe.

The Selective Mutism Information and Research Association (SMiRA) is another good resource for people affected by selective mutism. There's also a SMiRA Facebook page.

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice can help you find professionals in your area with experience in treating selective mutism.

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Find out about selective mutism, an anxiety disorder that prevents people from speaking in certain social situations.

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Information and resources to help children learn to talk.

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Tics are fast, repetitive muscle movements that result in sudden and difficult to control body jolts or sounds.
They're fairly common in childhood and typically first appear at around 5 years of age. Very occasionally they can start in adulthood.

Tics are not usually serious and normally improve over time. But they can be frustrating and interfere with everyday activities.

Tourette's syndrome, a term that's used when tics have lasted for more than a year, is covered separately.

Types of tics

There are many types of tic. Some affect body movement (motor tics) and others result in a sound (vocal or phonic tics).

Examples of tics include:

blinking, wrinkling the nose or grimacing

jerking or banging the head

clicking the fingers

touching other people or things

coughing, grunting or sniffing

repeating a sound or phrase - in a small number of cases, this may be something obscene or offensive

Tics can happen randomly and they may be associated with something such as stress, anxiety, tiredness, excitement or happiness. They tend to get worse if they're talked about or focused on.

They often start with an unpleasant sensation that builds up in the body until relieved by the tic - known as an urge - although they can sometimes be partly suppressed.

When to see a GP

Tics are not usually serious and they do not damage the brain.

You do not always need to see a GP if they're mild and not causing problems. Sometimes they can disappear as quickly as they appear.

See a GP if you're concerned about your or your child's tics, you need support or advice, or the tics:

occur very regularly, or become more frequent or severe

cause emotional or social problems, such as embarrassment, bullying or social isolation

cause pain or discomfort (some tics can cause the person to accidentally hurt themselves)

interfere with daily activities, school or work

are accompanied by anger, depression or self harm

A GP should be able to diagnose a tic from a description of it and, if possible, seeing it. Recording a short video can be helpful, but be careful not to draw too much attention to the tic while filming as this can make it worse.

Treatments for tics

Treatment is not always needed if a tic is mild and is not causing any other problems. Self-help tips, such as avoiding stress or tiredness, are often very helpful for the majority of people.

If a tic is more severe and is affecting everyday activities, therapies that aim to reduce how often tics occur may be recommended.

The main therapies for tics are:

Habit reversal therapy - this aims to help you or your child learn intentional movements that "compete" with tics, so the tic cannot happen at the same time

Comprehensive behavioural intervention for tics (CBiT) - a set of behavioural techniques to help learn skills to reduce tics

Exposure with response prevention (ERP) - this aims to help you or your child get used to the unpleasant sensations that are often felt just before a tic, which can stop the tic occurring

There are also medicines that can help reduce tics. These may be used alongside psychological therapies or after trying these therapies unsuccessfully.

Read more about how tics are treated.

How long do tics last?

In most cases, tics improve over time or stop completely.

Sometimes they may just last a few months, but often they come and go over several years.

They are normally most severe from around 8 years of age until teenage years, and usually start to improve after puberty.

Causes of tics

It's not clear what causes tics. They're thought to be due to changes in the parts of the brain that control movement.

They can run in families, and there's likely to be a genetic cause in many cases. They also often happen alongside other conditions, such as:

Tics can sometimes be triggered by taking illegal drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamines, and are occasionally caused by more serious health conditions such as cerebral palsy or Huntington's disease.

Page last reviewed: 05 April 2023
Next review due: 05 April 2026

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Tics are unintentional, fast and repetitive muscle movements. Find out how long they last, when to get medical advice and how they can be treated.

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Whether you’re experiencing a sleep issue or living with someone who has, it can feel overwhelming if you don’t have the right information and support.

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Our dedicated sleep service is here to help.

Alongside our Sleep Tips booklet and relevant guides, we also offer one-to-one support. This involves completing an application form for your child and two weeks' worth of sleep diaries which we'll send out to you as long as you come under our criteria for support.

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CALL - Mental Health Helpline for Wales including Neurodivergent Support

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CALL - Mental Health Helpline for Wales including Neurodivergent Support

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CALL Helpline is the all Wales mental health helpline.
It provides emotional support to anyone living in wales.
The helpline operators provide a listening ear to anyone wanting support with their mental health.

CALL Helpline is available 24/7 to anyone phoning from Wales.
CALL is also a bilingual service, meaning callers can choose to speak to the helpline operator in either Welsh or English.

CALL also offers a service through Language Line, which allows a caller to speak to the Helpline Operator in their language of choice.

The CALL Helpline has recently received training on a range of neurodivergent conditions and how to adapt our practice. We are therefore able to extend our service to provide a non judgemental listening ear to neurodivergent individuals, their families and carers. This includes the parents of neurodivergent children. You do not need to have a formal diagnosis in order to access the CALL Helpline, you may already be on a waiting list for diagnosis or you may think you, your child, or loved one may have a neurodivergent condition

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CALL offers emotional support and information/literature on mental health and related matters to the people of Wales.

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CALL - Mental Health Helpline for Wales including Neurodivergent Support

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CALL - Mental Health Helpline for Wales including Neurodivergent Support

# data[].attributes.body
CALL Helpline is the all Wales mental health helpline.
It provides emotional support to anyone living in wales.
The helpline operators provide a listening ear to anyone wanting support with their mental health.

CALL Helpline is available 24/7 to anyone phoning from Wales.
CALL is also a bilingual service, meaning callers can choose to speak to the helpline operator in either Welsh or English.

CALL also offers a service through Language Line, which allows a caller to speak to the Helpline Operator in their language of choice.

The CALL Helpline has recently received training on a range of neurodivergent conditions and how to adapt our practice. We are therefore able to extend our service to provide a non judgemental listening ear to neurodivergent individuals, their families and carers. This includes the parents of neurodivergent children. You do not need to have a formal diagnosis in order to access the CALL Helpline, you may already be on a waiting list for diagnosis or you may think you, your child, or loved one may have a neurodivergent condition

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CALL offers emotional support and information/literature on mental health and related matters to the people of Wales.

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I saw this quote when I was looking for postive mesages to keep me motivated this week and felt like it was woth sharing 💛 As young people we need to realise that we can do whatever we sety our minds to, and even if that dosen't work out, there is always something else to try 💛 never give up!

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Platfform 4YP - Resources, articles and news for young people, by young people.

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I saw this quote when I was looking for postive mesages to keep me motivated this week and felt like it was woth sharing 💛 As young people we need to realise that we can do whatever we sety our minds to, and even if that dosen't work out, there is always something else to try 💛 never give up!

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Meic is the information, advice and advocacy service for children and young people in Wales aged 0-25. Meic is a bilingual service that can be contacted, confidentially and free, by phone (08088023456), text (84001) or online chat through our website. We operate between 8am and midnight every single day of the year.

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It's normal for children and young people to feel worried about something that's happening at school - for example, when starting a new school or during exams. Sometimes, however, school can become challenging, stressful or distressing over a much longer period of time.

If your child is feeling anxious about school, or not able to go, it can be exhausting for both of you. Mornings in particular can become really stressful for the whole family, as you try to juggle your child's feelings alongside the need to get them to school and get on with your other responsibilities such as work. Even if you manage to get your child to the school gate, you might know how difficult they're going to find the day - or know that you'll be facing the same problem tomorrow morning.

If you're in this situation, we've got advice to help you explore what's going on with your child, make changes at school that can help, and find the support you need if your child can't go to school.

About the term 'school refusal'

When anxiety builds up to the point that a young person cannot go to school, this is often called 'school refusal' - and you might hear the school or other professionals using this term. However, many young people and parents do not like this term because it implies that 'refusing' school is a choice, and you may prefer to use terms such as emotionally-based school avoidance (ESBA) or anxiety-related absence.

What makes young people feel anxious about school?

Young people can feel anxious about school for lots of different reasons. They might be worried about making friends or fitting in, find schoolwork or lessons confusing, feel pressured to learn in a certain way or find their relationships with teachers difficult.

Sometimes, going through difficult experiences outside of school - such as bereavement, an illness in the family or being a young carer - can also make it harder for a child to feel settled at school.

For some young people, the school environment isn't right for them, and trying to fit into it can create a huge amount of stress. This might be the case if they are struggling with their mental health, or have a neurodiverse condition or Special Educational Need (SEN) such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia or dyspraxia. This can make the school environment anxiety-provoking and exhausting, especially if their condition or need is undiagnosed or not being well supported.

Young people might show they're feeling anxious about school by:

not wanting to get up and get ready

saying they can't go

worrying a lot about small issues, such as having the right equipment for a lesson

feeling sick, or having stomach aches or headaches

not sleeping well

not doing schoolwork, or their grades dropping

being angry or upset, or acting out - at school or at home

withdrawing - seeming low, quiet or depressed

Finding out what's going on for your child

Sometimes it can be difficult to work out what's making your child feel anxious, and the first step is often helping them to identify exactly what's worrying them. Once you understand the problem, you'll be in a much better position to make changes that can help.

Young people can find it hard to explain what's causing their feelings, and might not be able to answer direct questions like 'what's going on?' Using an anxiety iceberg can help to open up the conversation - giving you a more relaxed way of exploring together what's causing their anxiety.

Watch our video to find out how to make an anxiety iceberg with your child.

If you're making an anxiety iceberg with younger children, you might want to draw images on the iceberg, or encourage them to write simple words. With older children and teenagers, you can ask them to write key words and phrases on the iceberg, or do this as a mind map, with 'school' in the middle and all the things they're finding difficult around the outside.

Through this exercise, you might identify worries such as arriving at school, finding the environment noisy or overwhelming, finding lessons confusing, feeling lonely through the day, or feeling uncomfortable during specific subjects.

Making changes at school

Once you understand what's going on for your child, you can use their anxiety iceberg or mind map to communicate with the school and ask for specific changes.

Follow these steps to start a conversation with the school:

Here are some examples of things you can ask the school for:

Remember that even though this situation can be really tough for you and your child, it's a good idea to maintain a positive relationship with the school. Recognise the support they're offering and any changes they're making. This will help you work together to make things better for your child.

Building a relationship with the attendance team at my son's school was hugely helpful, we were talking with them each day.

Strategies you can try at home

For more information and advice on managing anxiety, have a look at our guide for parents.

If your child isn't able to go to school at the moment

If your child isn't going to school at the moment, this can be incredibly stressful and exhausting for you - and really tough for your child. You might be worried about whether they will be able to get back to school or the impact on their education. Or, you might feel overwhelmed because you're juggling this alongside work and other family commitments.

If your child's anxiety about school has built up to the point where they can't go, it's a good idea to get them some professional mental health or SEN support - see our advice on this below.

Alongside requesting professional help, try to:

The school's SEN and attendance policies should be on their website. Knowing what these are can support you during meetings with the school.

This can help if your child is unable to go to school for a longer period of time and you need to ask for more support, including provision of alternative full-time education.

Encourage your child to get up, do some studying and stop for lunch at the same times they would if they were in school. This will make adapting back to school easier. Explain to your child that if they cannot go to school, they will need to study at home - at least until alternative arrangements are put in place. Ask the school to help you facilitate tasks and activities your child can do and use online resources such as BBC Bitesize.

Not going to school could leave your child feeling really isolated. Make sure they stay connected to the outside world by seeing friends and family, doing activities they enjoy and getting outside for walks and exercise.

Speaking to friends online can be really important if your child is feeling isolated at home. Sometimes, however, you might notice that your child is spending lots of time gaming or on their phone, and that this is getting in the way of important daily activities like spending quality time with family, learning, or sleeping and eating well. If this is becoming a problem, have a look at our guide to gaming or guide to social media for more information and advice.

Local authorities must provide alternative education if a child of compulsory school age is unable to attend school over a longer period of time. If your child cannot attend school because of a mental or physical health issue, the local authority should provide an alternative as soon as it is clear that they will be away from school for more than 15 days (either consecutively or over time). Find out how to request alternative education.

What will happen if my child doesn't go to school?

Parents often tell us they are worried about fines and prosecution, but schools generally consider this only if they feel there is no valid reason for the absence, or that parents aren't engaging with the problem.

If the absence is prolonged, the case may be referred to a local council Education Welfare Officer (EWO). They will arrange a home visit to find out more and discuss strategies. The school may also refer to other support, including from CAMHS.

Helping your child return to school after an absence

Getting back to school after weeks or months may feel extremely difficult for your child, but you and the school can help make it more manageable. Here are some things you can do to help:

Set small, achievable targets, such as visiting the building outside school hours or attending one lesson.

Request a home visit from a school staff member so your child can check in while feeling safe, see that the school cares and discuss any strategies that might help them.

Ask for a reduced timetable, with regular reviews to discuss building back up at a manageable rate.

Discuss changing classes or sets if your child thinks this would help.

Focus on qualifications needed for what your child wants to do next, perhaps dropping a less relevant GCSE to reduce stress.

My son wasn't questioned about his absence when he did feel able to pop in for favourite lessons, helping to ease him back into full days of education.

Getting mental health and SEN support

If your child is struggling with anxiety and it's affecting their day-to-day life, learning or relationships, it's a good idea to find some professional support. Speaking to the GP and finding them a counsellor or therapist are two good places to start. You can find more information about GPs, counsellors and other mental health services in our guide to getting help for your child.

If there is no other obvious reason for your child's inability to attend school, they may have an undiagnosed Special Educational Need (SEN) such as dyslexia, autism or ADHD.

If you think this is the case:

Speak to the school's SENCO or your GP to ask for a referral for an assessment.

While you are waiting for an assessment, you can also ask the SENCO to refer your child for support from other professionals, such as an Educational Psychologist or Speech and Language Therapist. These professionals can identify specific needs and make recommendations for additional support the school can put in place - even if your child hasn't had a formal diagnosis yet.

SEN support at school
If your child is diagnosed with SEN, extra support and adjustments should be put in place at school to help them attend and learn. This is called SEN support, and should be available within the school's existing resources. Speak to the school's SENCO in the first instance about how the school will support your child.
Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans
If you do not think your child's needs can be met by the school's existing resources, you can ask the local authority to carry out an Education, Health and Care needs assessment (EHC needs assessment). If the local authority decides your child needs additional support, they will then make an Education, Health and Care plan (EHC plan). This outlines how the extra support they need will be provided. Find out more about EHC plans.
Your Local Offer
Your Local Offer is the information, support and services available for young people with SEN, and for their parents and families. You can find out what support is available in your area by going to your local authority's website and searching for their Local Offer.

If you need more information and advice about getting the right education for your child when they have been diagnosed with a Special Educational Need (SEN), IPSEA can help.

If you need to talk through a problem, their Advice Line can provide support with any educational issue resulting from your child's SEN. You can also find lots of information, including information on assessments and diagnosis, as well as getting support from the school and local authority, on their website.

Finding more information and advice

Useful helplines and websites

While we take care to ensure that the organisations we signpost to provide high quality information and advice, we cannot take responsibility for any specific pieces of advice they may offer. We encourage parents and carers to always explore the website of a linked service or organisation to understand who they are and what support they offer before engaging with them.

You might also find this helpful

We have more tips and advice on supporting your child with school, and information about how you can get in touch with our Parents Helpline.

Help us improve our content

Whether you love the page or think something is missing, we appreciate your feedback. It all helps us to support more young people with their mental health.

If your child is in crisis right now and you want to talk to someone urgently, find out who to contact on our urgent help page.

This form is anonymous. Please do not include personal details like your name or email address. If you would like us to reply, you can contact us instead at ymenquiries@youngminds.org.uk.
At YoungMinds we take your privacy seriously. If you'd like to read more about how we keep the information we collect safe, take a look at our privacy policy.

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School Anxiety and Refusal | Parent Guide to Support

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If your child is anxious about school, or refusing to go to school at all, read our tips and advice on how you can support their mental health.

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The Sanctuary is a project that provides a welcome and support for refugees and asylum seekers in Newport.

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School Nursing Referral Line for Parents

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School Nursing Referral Line for Parents

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If you're a parent and would like to seek support for a child/young person, please call 01633431685 to speak to our teams across Gwent. Phone line is in operation Mon-Fri, 9:00 - 16:30.

Alternatively you can complete our online referral form https://buff.ly/3rvLPcr (this is the preferred referral method for professionals)

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Sparkle - Helping Special Children Shine

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Sparkle is a charity that supports children, young people, and their families, across Gwent with disabilities and/or developmental difficulties.

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Our dedicated sleep service is here to help.

Alongside our Sleep Tips booklet and relevant guides, we also offer one-to-one support. This involves completing an application form for your child and two weeks' worth of sleep diaries which we'll send out to you as long as you come under our criteria for support.

If you need one-to-one support and are a parent/carer or a professional referring a family with their consent to having sleep support, please click the button below to contact the sleep service.

If you have a question or query about our services please email us at [email protected].

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Sleep tips Our Sleep Tips booklet introduces and explains different techniques for you to try that may improve your child's sleep. It covers ten main topics including bedtime routines, daytime napping, comfort objects and moving bedtime backwards or forwards. It gives lots of illustrated hints and tips for putting the...

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Useful resources for Refugee & Asylum Seekers

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Useful resources for Refugee & Asylum Seekers

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All Wales Traumatic Stress Quality Improvement Ini

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Useful Resources for Refugee and Asylum Seekers

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ADDIS: Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service

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ADDIS: Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service

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Welcome to ADDISS, The National Train your child to do what you want them to do. Easy to follow steps for disciplining without yelling, arguing or smacking. proven successful programme. Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service.
We provide people-friendly information and resources about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder to anyone who needs assistance - parents, sufferers, teachers or health professionals. Whatever you're looking for in ADHD, we'll do our best to help.

This website contains just a fraction of the information that we have on ADHD. If you would like to know more, visit our Bookstore. It has a wide range of resources about all aspects of ADHD and associated conditions, with special sections for parents, children, teenagers and professionals.

If you would like to talk to someone about ADHD, telephone us on 020 8952 2800, or you can send us an e-mail if you have any questions or need more information about anything you see on this site.

ADDISS is a proud member of ADHD Europe, an organisation founded to advance the rights of, and advocate on every level throughout Europe for people affected by AD/HD and co-morbid conditions in order to help them reach their full potential.
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1 2 3 Magic Practitioner training courses for 2023

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ADHD Awareness Month 2020 - Common Questions, Reliable Answers

Working in partnership with organisations around the globe, we've reached out to people with ADHD and their families across the globe to find the most commonly asked questions. We've taken these questions to world-leading ADHD experts, who have given us answers you can rely on! Check out these answers at adhdawarenessmonth.org. For more information, visit our 2019 project website on myths and facts at adhdisreal.org.

COVID-19 and ADHD

ADDISS is determined to continue supporting people with ADHD during these difficult times, and we appreciate the support of each and every one of our members and the ADHD community. For more information on how to access support during this crisis, pleasesee our Facebook page, where you can get in touch if you need us.

We know that this pandemic is creating new challenges for people with ADHD, so we'd like to share this guidance from the European ADHD Guidelines Group - click here to view a PDF article.

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We now have a dedicated page listing several ways you can help support us in our work. Please follow HOW TO SUPPORT US
THIS LINK for more information.

We are pleased to announce a new and exciting way to support ADDISS that won't cost you a penny. In fact, it could even save you money on your online shopping! A NEW WAY TO SUPPORT ADDISS... THAT COULD EVEN SAVE YOU MONEY!

We have partnered with Savoo who will donate to ADDISS every time you search online via their website. In fact, you can make it even easier by making "https://www.savoo.co.uk/#addiss" your default search engine! It's totally free, and would help us a great deal.

All you have to do is follow this link, click "Support this cause", set up a free account, and start searching!

Savoo is also a great way to save money. If you visit Savoo, click "Support this cause", and set up an account you can find voucher codes for hundreds of your favourite shops including Boots, John Lewis, Amazon, and many many more. Every time you use one of those voucher codes Savoo will donate to ADDISS, and you will save money on your shopping!

And, if you're shopping with Amazon, use Amazon Smile instead of the normal amazon.co.uk - If you make ADDISS your chosen charity, Amazon will donate a small percentage of their profit from your purchase to ADDISS at NO COST to you!

For more information on this and other ways to support ADDISS, click here

WHO'S IN CHARGE AT YOUR HOUSE?
Put Yourself back in control.

The 1 2 3 Magic programme is highly recommended by ADDISS as behavioural intervention for children with ADHD and other challenging behaviours. We have now trained over 200 practitioners to deliver this programme to parents in the UK. Please contact us to find if there is a group running near you.

Buy the 1-2-3 Magic Book on-line now for £13.50 including Postage and packing.
Just click here.

NOW AVAILABLE
The Tipping Points
By Phil Anderton PhD
What professionals should recognise as the social impact of ADHD.
Retired police officer Phil Anderton brings us a unique book looking at how young people with poorly managed ADHD are at risk of following a path into crime, substance misuse, anti-social behaviour and personal danger, and outlines ways to reduce those risks with easy to follow and pragmatic text and checklists. The book, the first of its kind also has advice for magistrates and the police when coming into contact with these young people.
Order your copy now for
£9.99 plus £1.50 postage
You can buy it online now. Just click here

"As an adult who has ADHD, from childhood, and I have had my fair share of issues with the police and courts as a consequence, I really appreciate the interest in this subject being taken by Phil Anderton. This book should be read by anyone and everyone who deals with youngsters who have the disorder, if the people who looked after me had recognised my Tipping Points and done right by me, I might not have the criminal record that I have."
Gary Sendall, Founder WADDSUPP, adult ADHD support group in the Wirrall

"Many books seek to promote awareness of ADHD among the public but very few do so with as splendid a combination of science and compassion as does Mr. Anderton in this up-to-the-minute summation of what parents and others should know about ADHD and its management."
Professor Russell Barkley, SUNY Upstate Medical School

"This book is very welcome – it takes the lessons from the scientific study of ADHD and applies them to a social and justice perspective. It deserves to be read widely, especially by those who doubt whether the individual's vulnerability of ADHD is relevant to how society should react."
Professor Eric Taylor, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London

"Phil Anderton, an experienced police officer, has seen that many who get in trouble with the law have ADHD. In this book he clearly describes what ADHD is and makes very practical suggestions for how those with ADHD can be powerfully helped by appropriate treatment. His approach is sensible, compassionate, and desperately needed."
Professor Thomas E. Brown, Ph.D. Dept of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine

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RAISING FUNDS FOR ADDISS AND RAISING AWARENESS. ADHD is REAL

You can help raise funds for the national ADHD Charity ADDISS. At the same time you will be helping to raise awareness about ADHD by purchasing our Shopping Trolley Token Keyrings and/or the National ADHD Charity Wristband. Maybe you'd even like your own personal ADDISS Stress Brain! Click the picture for larger images and order details.

Phone: 020 8952 2800

Press enquiries
020 8952 1515

e-mail: info@addiss.co.uk

ADDISS
P O Box 340
Edgware
Middlesex
HA8 9HL

Registered Charity 1070827

Please give your support and help to raise much needed funds by making a donation to ADDISS.

We have now teamed up with Just Giving.com to create a secure method for making donations to ADDISS or for raising funds through various events.

To receive email updates of news and events please add your email address

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Welcome to ADDISS, The National Train your child to do what you want them to do. Easy to follow steps for disciplining without yelling, arguing or smacking. proven successful programme. Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service. We provide people-friendly information and resources about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder to anyone who needs assistance - parents, sufferers, teachers or health professionals.

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Understanding & Manage Behaviours that challenge

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Understanding & Manage Behaviours that challenge

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ERIC - Children's Bowel & Bladder Health

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ERIC - Children's Bowel & Bladder Health

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With your help, we can keep offering free support to those who need us.

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School Nursing Young People's text service - Age 11-19 years old

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School Nursing Young People's text service - Age 11-19 years old

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It’s good to talk, but sometimes it easier to text!

Do you know about our new text service for young people aged 11-19? No? Well…we’ll let you off as we only launched it Monday

Please share with any YP who may be struggling, it’s safe, confidential & anonymous.

07312 263262 | Start a Chat https://chathealth.nhs.uk/start-a-chat/h/gwentschoolnurses/

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Free Helpline for confidential advice if you have experienced domestic abuse, sexual violence and/or violence against women, or are worried about a friend or relative who is experiencing any form of violence or abuse, you can call us – it’s free, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Live Fear Free Helpline : Welsh Women’s Aid

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Get involved

Join us virtually at our One Is Too Many Suicide Prevention conference on 11 October between 10am and 1pm. During our three-hour live stream, you'll have the chance to explore the impact of this innovative funding programme that supported projects which aim to reduce suicide risks within vulnerable veterans in a co-ordinated and targeted way.

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The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust supports the Armed Forces Covenant by delivering funding programmes that create real change.

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 Guidance, services and support for Armed Forces and veterans

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 Guidance, services and support for Armed Forces and veterans

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Free support for veterans and their families, including a helpline, Veterans Welfare Service, Defence Transition Services and injury/bereavement compensation scheme payments

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The Ministry of Defence has introduced an updated process for actioning War Pension and Armed Forces Scheme complaints.

We provide free support for veterans and their families, including a helpline, Veterans Welfare Service, Defence Transition Services and injury/bereavement compensation scheme payments.

Veterans UK is part of the Ministry of Defence.

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We provide free support for veterans and their families, including a helpline, Veterans Welfare Service, Defence Transition Services and injury/bereavement compensation scheme payments. Veterans UK is part of the Ministry of Defence .

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Veterans’ Gateway – information and support for veterans and their families

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Veterans’ Gateway – information and support for veterans and their families

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Want to receive a £20 amazon (electronic) or love2shop voucher (electronic or physical) for sharing your valuable experience?

Use our Self Help resources to find information and advice or contact our advisors for support by phone or email.

Previously, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) established an independent statutory inquiry to investigate and report on allegations of wrongdoing by...

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Advice and support for veterans & ex-forces | Veterans' Gateway

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The Veterans' Gateway service is the first point of contact for the welfare needs of veterans and their families.

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Supporting Service Children in Education

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Supporting Service Children in Education

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DAP provides a welfare rights service to support disabled people, their families and carers.

Independent specialist advice

Help with completing forms

Assess your full entitlement to services and benefits

Attend appeals with you

Help build the evidence you need

Put you in touch with support agencies

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Personal Independence Payment ( PIP) can help with extra living costs if you have both:

a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability

difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around because of your condition

Visit: https://www.gov.uk/pip/overview for details.

PIP is not:

Means tested

Taxable

Dependent on National Insurance contributions

Affected by work

To claim, you need to ring the Department for Work and Pensions on Telephone: 0800 917 2222 or Textphone: 0800 917 7777 . They will send you an application form.

When you receive this form, you can make an appointment with us. Please ring us between 10am and 4pm (weekdays) and we will offer you the next available appointment.

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Personal Independence Payment ( PIP) can help with extra living costs if you have both: a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around because of your condition Visit: https://www.gov.uk/pip/overview for details.

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The SenCom Vision Impairment Service supports children and young people with vision impairment and/or multi-sensory impairment. Professionals and parents or carers can use this form to make a referral.