If your driving is not affected by your ADHD or ADHD medication, you do not need to tell DVLA. Ask your doctor if you’re unsure.

Access to Work can help with workplace adjustments. It can provide financial and practical support. For example, software or noise-cancelling headphones. It can also help with job coaching, training, and ergonomic changes. To qualify, you must be employed for at least 16 hours a week and have a disability affecting their work. You can apply directly, or your employer can apply for you.

• Mood and emotion regulation to manage stress and well-being

• Productivity and task management for organisation and task prioritisation

• Focus and distraction-blocking to maintain concentration

• Time and sleep management

• Goal setting and habit tracking

Many apps offer a free version. You can try this before committing to a premium paid subscription.

Find apps by searching on your phone or tablet's app store for the categories listed above.

• Websites

• Local ADHD Support (North East)

• Lived Experience Stories

• Podcasts

• Books

• YouTube Channels

• Other Useful Info

• Other Wellbeing Resources

• Carer Resources

  
  

These groups can be supportive, but it’s important to approach them with an open mind. Advice in support groups is often based on personal experiences. You may or may not agree with the personal opinions or strategies you see. Carefully consider whether advice online is based on research or professional guidance.

You can subscribe to alerts when this page is updated by clicking the bell icon on the right hand side of this page and clicking follow. (You will need to set up a free account to do this.) There is also a Padlet phone app which can provide notifications when pages you are following are updated.

Noticed something that's not quite right, or have an idea to share? We'd love to hear from you - email us at ADHDPeerSupport@cntw.nhs.uk

Last Updated: 07.07.26

• Look out for well-known and reliable ADHD organisations. ADDitude, ADHD UK and others offer moderated forums and social media groups. This offers safer and more credible support.

• Choose a trusted platform that you are already familiar with and comfortable using. There are groups on Facebook, Reddit, Discord, and more.

• Look for clear guidelines. Well-moderated groups have rules to keep things respectful and share accurate information.

• Protect your privacy. Don't share personal details like your full name, location, or workplace.

• Beware of scams. Be cautious of groups or members promoting paid "miracle" cures or unproven treatments.

• Remember, groups offer valuable peer support. But they should not replace professional medical or therapeutic advice.

Newcastle Welfare Rights Service
Tel: 0191 277 2633
Advice Line Tel: 0191 277 2627 (9.30am – 12 noon, Mon-Fri)

Gateshead Benefits Support Advice
Tel: 0191 433 4646 (8.45am-5pm, Mon-Thurs and 8.45am-4.35pm, Fri)
Email: benefitenquiries@gateshead.gov.uk

Northumberland Council Benefits Helpline
Tel: 0345 600 6400 (8.30am – 5pm, Mon-Thurs and 8.30am-4.30pm, Fri)

Sunderland Welfare Rights Service
Tel: 0191 520 5551 (8.30am-5pm, Mon-Fri)
Email: homeandmoney@sunderland.gov.uk

South Tyneside Welfare Support
Tel: 0191 424 6040 (8.30am-5pm, Mon-Thurs and 8.30am-4.30pm, Fri)
Email: welfaresupport@southtynesidehomes.org.uk

North Tyneside Benefits Line
Tel: 0345 2000 101 (8.30am – 5pm, Mon-Thurs and 8.30am – 4.30pm, Fri)

Email: benefits@northtyneside.gov.uk

• a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability

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

You can get PIP even if you’re working, have savings or are getting most other benefits.

Call 111 and select option 2 for 24/7 urgent mental health support.

Samaritans: telephone: 116 123 – a safe place to talk any time you like. Free to use. (24/7)

Give us a shout: text SHOUT to 85258 for help 24/7. (For SMS support text CALMER). Free to use.

No Panic: 0300 772 9844 (10am-10pm) Youth Helpline: 0330 606 1174

Saneline: 0300 304 7000 (4:30pm-10:30pm)

CALM: 0800 58 58 58 (5pm-midnight)

Activities of the service include:

• A regular social group 

• 1:1 sessions with an Occupational Therapist 

• Course 1: Autism and Me 

• Course 2: ADHD and Me

April - May 2026

With or without a diagnosis, having neurodiverse traits may mean you have experienced challenges, rejection & stigma. This group aims to explore and equip you with the understanding that neurodiverse traits can be of value. Your unique perspective and approach can have numerous benefits when you and others embrace these differences rather than judge them. Share with people who understand, accept, and celebrate differences.

ADHD Support Group runs 1st Tuesday of every month.

What's On and When - Washington Mind

Please contact Washington Mind if interested in any session on: 0191 417 8043 or email: info@washingtonmind.org.uk to discuss attending.

Available for anyone who might be struggling with their mental health, as well as families, friends, colleagues, teachers, students, and anyone else who might be interested in understanding more about mental health and wellbeing.

There are more than 600 conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord and nervous system. We champion neurodiversity and provide practical help, emotional support and social activities for every single one.

At Autism Plus, we understand that each person’s journey is distinct, shaped by their talents, passions, and Neurodivergent condition. Our approach is grounded in this understanding, making sure that our services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of the individuals we work with. We go beyond conventional employment support, recognising the value of harnessing the unique qualities of Neurodivergent individuals.

The 2025 ADHD Awareness Month theme is "The Many Faces of ADHD!"

Join us for a calm, welcoming community, good food, and meaningful discussions.

This is a weekly group run by and for neurodivergent adults (18+).
You do not need a formal diagnosis to attend and friends/family are also very welcome.

Whether you feel like chatting or listening in with a cuppa, you’re always welcome.

If you have an interest or any further questions please email our Odd-Fish-Secretary Christine Frazer at christinefrazerbenshamgrove@gmail.com

Please enrol as a student of the college before dropping by. More info at: Contact | Reach Out Today — RE-CO-CO

Unmasked, a support group for people with ADHD. A safe space to take off your mask and be yourself. This is a supportive space where everyone’s voice is heard, and every story matters.

Join like minded people to share the experiences of living with ADHD.

Share stories, ask questions or just listen. There is no pressure to be anything other than you!

No formal diagnosis requried.

This is a safe and inclusive, in-person group for autistic people aged 18+. It will give you the opportunity to meet other autistic people who live or work in the Tyne Valley area. No formal diagnosis is required.

This session is free and open to anyone aged 18+ who lives or works in Northumberland.

This is a safe and inclusive session for neurodiverse adults. Take your pick from crosswords, colouring, sketching, lego, jigsaws, and other activities, and come and meet likeminded people in a supportive and welcoming environment. No formal diagnosis is required to join.

The programme supports people in Northumberland who have a learning disability or are experiencing mental ill-health, by using artistic practices to boost their wellbeing and confidence.

Northern Butterflies is based in Cramlington with activities taking place across two sites, the studio and a community garden space.

Thank you for your patience :)