Third of ADHD Children ‘Excluded’

More than a third of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been excluded from school, a survey of parents claimed. The BBC reports that a poll of 526 families found 39% had had a child excluded from class, and in 11% of cases this was permanent.

The national ADHD charity, ADDISS – the Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service – said more than two thirds of parents whose children have the condition believe their child’s ability to achieve at school was “very affected” by it.

ADDISS carried out the survey as part of the first national ADHD awareness week.

The charity claimed it highlighted a lack of resources and support available for children with ADHD and their families.

More than two thirds of parents questioned did not have access to a local ADHD clinic, nurse or advisory teacher.

Many questioned said the disorder affected the rest of the family, with the associated behaviours of extreme difficulty sitting still or concentrating making normal family life difficult.

Andrea Bilbow, founder of ADDISS, said: “Early identification of ADHD is key.

“With the right help from schools and access to appropriate medical and non–medical treatment, we can support children with ADHD through their developing years and help them succeed in life.”