These FAQ are based on the questions we normally get asked when we are contacted.

Gateshead ADHD Support can help you with many problems or concerns you have, however the following professional bodies can also be of massive support to you and we strongly recommend that you contact them if needed.

1. My child is having difficulties at school how can I access independent advice and help locally.

A. You can contact the Parent Partnership Officer at Barnardos. Her name is Elizabeth Lowery Tel: 4784667. She can help you with:

* Ezplaining the assessment process * Helping you to prepare for meetings * Supporting you at meetings * Helping you with all paperwork * Looking at all the options * Being a listening ear.

This support is provded by either the Parent Partnership Officer or trained volunteers called Independent Parent Supporters (IPS)

They can give you information about

* The assessment Process * Code of Practice * Parents' rights * Who may be involved * The annual review * Appeals or tribunal procedures * Transition Plans * Any SEN questions you want answers to

They can do this by

* Over the phone * By letter * By arranging a home visit * At the partnership office

All enquiries are completely confidential.

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2. My child is starting secondary school, help where do I start?

A. Gateshead has a Choice Adviser. A choice advisor can give you help, information and support to apply for your child's school place at secondary school.

It can be a difficult and stressful time for families, but the choice advisor can help you to undrstand the application and admission process.

The choice adviser is completely independent from all schools. She will not try to influence your decision and she cannot guarantee a place in your chosen school.

But, by providing useful information and support she can help you to make the best decision on school choices for your child.

For more information contact:

Sandra Arkless. Choice Advisor / Learning & Culture Civic Centre Regent St Gateshead. NE81HH Tel: 0191 4332446 Fax: 0191 4901168 Mobile: 07824 622534 Email: sandraarkless@gateshead.gov.uk www.gateshead.gov.uk

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3. Is there anywhere in Gateshead I can join to be kept uptodate about what is happening with Families with Disabled Children.

A. Yes, you can join Gateshead Network of Children with Disabilities. The benefits are:

* Receive a newsletter four times a year, which will keep you up to date with what's happening locally and nationally. They will send you info on service developments and local events as and when it becomes available

* All members are invited to have their say on changes to services through consultation meetings and/or surveys.

* Make contact with families who have similar conditions as your child to share experiences and support

* Receive a free leisure pass for each of your immediate family for most leisure services in Gateshead.

To join contact Tom Elms on 4333000 or you can request a form to join by emailing to Gateshead ADHD Support (see our contact page)

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4. I don't think my child's medication is working, what can I do?

A. The first thing you must do is to contact your childs Consultant and discuss this with him/her. They can talk through any concerns you have. If you currently see the nurses in the ADHD Clinic at the Queen Elizabeth you can contact them direct and ask to have an appointment with themselves at the next clinic or they can arrange to come out to your home and see you.

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5. Does my child qualify for DLA (Disability Living Allowance)

A. Your child may be, each case is looked at individually. If you would like help and support completing the forms please contact ourselves and we will be glad to help you. (see contact page)