Navigating autism and ADHD can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t know where to turn for guidance. This page brings together trusted resources, online communities, and specialist support services to help you find the right advice at the right time.

National Organisations and Charities

National Autistic Society (NAS)

The UK’s leading autism charity, offering guidance, services, and a comprehensive Autism Services Directory to help you find local support.

Ambitious about Autism

Dedicated to improving opportunities for autistic young people, this charity provides practical resources and an online parent community.

ADHD Foundation

The UK’s leading neurodiversity charity, supporting individuals with ADHD and related conditions through training, advocacy, and resources.

Growing Hope

A Christian charity providing free therapy for children and young people (0-18) with additional needs, in partnership with local churches across the UK. They offer services such as occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, physiotherapy, music therapy, and art therapy. Growing Hope also provides support groups for parents, carers, and siblings. Their clinics are open to everyone, regardless of faith background.

growinghope.org.uk

PDA Society

The PDA Society is the only specialist charity in the UK dedicated to Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), a profile on the autism spectrum. They offer information, support, and training for individuals, families, and professionals to improve understanding and outcomes for PDA individuals. The society also provides a discussion forum and a resources library. 

Online Communities and Forums

Talk about Autism

A safe space run by Ambitious about Autism, where parents and carers can connect, share experiences, and seek support.

NAS Online Community

A forum by the National Autistic Society for autistic individuals and their families to share advice and experiences.

Autism & ADHD Parent Support UK CIC

A thriving Facebook community with over 19,000 members. Offers local support groups across the UK, run by parent volunteers.

Local Support Groups

Find Your Local NAS Branch

NAS operates volunteer-led branches providing social activities, information, and peer support for autistic individuals and their families.

Autism Central

A nationwide directory of local services and support groups to help families access the right assistance in their area.

Specialist Support Services

Autism and ADHD Support

Provides counselling, advocacy, and identity support to help individuals embrace their neurodivergence.

Helping Hands – Autism & ADHD Behaviour Support

Offers workshops and guidance for parents navigating autism or ADHD diagnoses, run by volunteers and professionals.

Additional Resources

The Autism Directory

A hub of information covering education, employment, therapy, and social support for autistic individuals and families.

Autistic Parents UK

A peer-led charity offering support, resources, and advocacy for autistic parents.

Need More Help?

If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to one of the national organisations listed above, or join an online community to connect with others on the same journey. Remember, you are not alone, and there is support available to help you navigate this path.