Last updated at 20:23, Thursday, 17 May 2012

A support group for parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder will be relaunched in Workington next week.

Marie Steel, left, is taking over an ADHD that meets at the Minto Centre in Workington once a month, from Rachael Davies, who has run the group for the past 10 years.

Marie Steele, 36, of Derwent Bank, Seaton, has taken over the running of the group from Rachael Davies, of Cleator Moor, who headed it for 10 years.

The group is also open to adults with the disorder, commonly known as ADHD, and professionals who want to learn more about it.

Marie, who has a nine-year-old son with the condition, said: “I am no expert but I hope that with the help of Rachel and with the experiences I’ve had I can help other parents so we can support each other.

“My hope for the group is to eventually plan some activities for the kids.”

Rachael, 43, who has ADHD herself and has two teenage daughters with the disorder, has decided to step back from the group although she will still provide support and information.

She said: “The fact that the group is going to continue and there is not going to be a break in that support is brilliant.”

The aim is to promote awareness of ADHD and give people a relaxed environment in which to share their experiences and offer advice.

They also hope to work with schools and direct people to other help available.

Marie, a senior teaching assistant, said: “We have had issues with my son’s previous schools and we have had to fight to get him support. I only felt I could do that because I know the ins and outs of the education system.

“If I can just help one other parent to get the help their child deserves, that is what I am here for.”

The group will meet for a coffee morning drop-in session at the Minto Centre in Westfield, Workington, next Friday from 10am to noon.

First published at 19:20, Thursday, 17 May 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk