BURY is set to pilot a scheme to support young people diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Condition and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder.

The project is also aimed at giving their families and carers advice and help to ensure they do not feel isolated.

The move has been triggered by research that estimates three to four per cent of young people aged up to 18 years have Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) and there is a strong link between these conditions and complex health, education and social needs.

Funding has been provided by NHS Bury Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to Bury Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) to provide post diagnosis support.

Bury CAMHS has used the funding to commission Bury Parents’ Forum, which has provided training and support to young people with a range of complex conditions for several years, to extend this training and support to those diagnosed with autism and ADHD.

Tailored support will include: home visits; signposting to education, health and social care; direct links to specialist support; peer mentoring; and support with budgeting and administration issues.

Bury mum Deborah Johnson has been receiving support from Bury Parents' Forum for around four years.

She has a 17-year-old daughter,Philippa, who has a severe form of epilepsy, which causes regression, developmental delay and sensory problems. Philippa’s condition means that she finds meeting new people and being in unfamiliar surroundings and situations distressing.

Following Philippa’s diagnosis at the age of seven, her parents felt very isolated and alone, but being put in touch with Bury Parents’ Forum changed this.

Deborah said: “I can’t put into words the difference that the team at Bury Parents’ Forum has made to our lives. We feel empowered and more confident in caring for our daughter. It’s hugely reassuring that we can just pick up the phone and speak to someone if we’re worried.

“Being carers themselves, they really understand what we are going through — it’s clear it’s not just a job for them, but a passion. They put Philippa at the heart of everything and make sure all services and activities focus on her needs."

Dr Jeffrey Schryer, mental health lead at NHS Bury CCG said: “This pilot will ensure that families and patients will feel supported and informed and will empower them to self-manage their condition and live well with autism and ADHD.”