As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on our journey together last year and share the exciting plans we have moving forward.

2024: A Year of Milestones

2024 was nothing short of transformative for the ADHD community in Reading. Here are some highlights:

• The Reading ADHD Group was officially formed, and our website launched in October during ADHD Awareness Month—a major step in building a central hub for support and information.
• I secured direct engagement with MPs and councillors, leading to meaningful discussions about improving ADHD provisions.
• We built strong relationships with the council and other advocacy groups, strengthening our collective voice.
• Last Monday, I facilitated a workshop for the Change NHS Platform, providing valuable feedback to drive improvements in ADHD care.
• I actively participated in co-production and advocacy groups, furthering our cause on a local level.
• My involvement with Ethical Reading’s Neurodiversity at Work Scheme took off, and as an admin for their social media groups, we successfully provided resources to support neurodivergent workers.

2025: A Promising Start

This year has already begun with incredible momentum:

• I facilitated a workshop for the Change NHS Platform, where we tackled the challenges of standardised templates to shed light on ADHD and neurodiversity. The data was submitted, and the insight shared was a huge success—thank you to everyone who contributed!
• Two online workshops with Anj Cairns, a professional ADHD coach, have been confirmed:
  • January 27th: Navigating Access to Work.
  • February 24th: Coping Strategies for ADHD.
• The adult ADHD support group is set to take place on the last Tuesday of every month from 7:30 to 9:30 PM.
• I’ve teamed up with AutAngel to pilot a Neurodiversity Men’s Group in Reading. If you’re interested, let me know!
• I delivered a presentation on lobbying local government for ADHD UK Ambassadors, equipping them with tools to campaign in their areas—here’s to seeing grassroots change spread across the country!

Moving Forward in 2025

This year, I’m committed to building on these successes and driving even greater change:

• Continuing to arrange monthly support groups.
• Hosting events and workshops while seeking collaborations with groups, charities, and individuals. If this sounds like you, get in touch!
• Continuing to lobby for local change, pushing for equity and better ADHD provisions.
• Amplifying the message of neuro-inclusion and equality at every opportunity.
• Anticipating the announcement of the NHS 10-Year Plan and ADHD Task Force, which promises to bring long-overdue changes.

Join Us

The journey ahead is exciting, but we can’t do it alone. Your support, collaboration, and input are invaluable. Let’s make 2025 a year of breakthroughs, solidarity, and progress for the ADHD community. Together, we can create lasting change!

Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!