Information on SEND conditions

Attention Deficit (hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD) means that people have difficulties with: 

1. Paying attention and concentrating 

2. Sitting still 

3. Controlling impulses (doing things without thinking, even if you know you aren’t meant to) 

Some people have difficulties with all 3 things, but other people have a type of ADHD where they only struggle with paying attention, and not with sitting still or being impulsive. 

People with ADHD might also struggle to stay organised, follow instructions or get their work done on time. 

About 5% of children (or 1 in every 20) has ADHD – that’s 1 or 2 children in every classroom. Lots of people with ADHD also see it as an advantage- they are curious, passionate, enthusiastic and driven. Symptoms can be noticed when children are young however it may only become more noticeable when children start school. 

Sometimes ADHD is not recognised when someone is a child and as a result, they may be diagnosed in adulthood

You can read more about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder on the NHS website

ADHD can only be diagnosed by a psychiatrist. Usually, the psychiatrist is working as part of the local child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) team. 

If you, or your child’s school, suspects your child has ADHD, they will be referred to the child and adolescent mental health services for assessment. As part of the referral, you and your child’s school will be asked to complete screening paperwork called ‘SNAP’ (Swanson, Nolan and Pelham screening for ADHD) and the CAST (Childhood Autism Syndrome Test) for both Autism and ADHD, this is because Autism and ADHD often occur together. 

You can read more about the referral forms and assessment process for ADHD on the CAMHS page.

You may have questions about how to support your child. It is important to understand as much as you can about ADHD to help support your child's ability to focus and sustain their attention and support their organisation skills. Waltham Forest CAMHS have produced an ADHD support pack you can download with helpful information.

The CAMHS professional will talk to you about ways to support your child, and whether medication will be helpful to trail, to improve their concentration and attention control at school or at home. 

You may have questions about ADHD and medication. To find out more you can look at the frequently asked questions on the NELFT ADHD website

After diagnosis, it is important to let your child's school know that this diagnosis has been given, so they can talk with you and your child about how best to support you both. 

In Waltham Forest, your GP can refer you to the adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder service. 

The ADHD national charity also has advice and support you may find useful.