Multi-agency training programmes for professionals and parents of children with ADHD

Abstract

<h3>Aims</h3> In our area there was a lack of knowledge about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its management among professionals from different agencies. Parents whose children were diagnosed as having ADHD also lacked post diagnosis support. The aim was to provide appropriate training to both user groups. <h3>Method</h3> A multi-agency care pathway group including representation from health, education, social care, voluntary sector and parents was set up to plan services for ADHD. From this a two day training programme for professionals was piloted in 2007 and now runs twice yearly. It includes factual information about ADHD, its assessment and medical management as well as comprehensive information about behaviour management both at school and home. The training is delivered by multi-agency professionals with contribution from children and families with ADHD. A similar education programme for parents was developed from this training, taking place on three mornings over three consecutive weeks in two localities since 2008. A drop-in parent support group has also been established to provide on-going help and advice. All are funded jointly by education, health and voluntary sector. <h3>Evaluation</h3> Professionals and parents are asked to complete evaluation questionnaires to assess the quality of the talks, the venues and views on improving future training as well as how it will change and help their day to day management of ADHD. Feedback has shown that professionals and parents find it extremely useful to get information directly from professionals working in the field. <h3>Conclusion</h3> This training has had a very positive effect on joint working of multi-agency professionals as well as parents. It has helped establish a pro-active attitude towards ADHD management, as well as widening the range of resources available. It also complies with 2008 National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines, a key implementation target of which was the development of training programmes for both professionals and parents. Other areas of the country may find a similar approach to training beneficial.