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Over the last few days you may have seen news reports about changes to SEND support in England, including suggestions that EHCPs may be replaced. Families may understandably feel uncertain following recent media coverage. At present, the government has published proposals, not new law. A consultation period is now taking place and the current SEND system, including EHCP processes and school responsibilities, remains unchanged. However, the proposals do show the direction the

Many people wonder if they have autism, ADHD, or both. These two conditions share some traits but also have clear differences. Understanding how they compare and overlap can help people make sense of their experiences. This post explains key differences and similarities between autism and ADHD, why they often occur together, and why a combined assessment can be helpful. Diagram explaining neurodiversity Attention versus processing differences One of the main ways autism and

Many parents notice a puzzling pattern: their child seems to manage well at school, even excelling in some areas, but at home, they struggle with emotional outbursts, exhaustion, or withdrawal. This can be especially true for girls and children with high abilities. It raises questions about whether something like autism or ADHD might be involved. Understanding why this happens can help parents feel less alone and more confident in deciding what to do next. A quiet study corne

If you’ve ever wondered whether you or your child might have ADHD, you’re not alone. Many people seek clarity about their experiences, behaviours, and challenges. Understanding the ADHD diagnosis framework can be the first step towards gaining that clarity. It’s a process designed to help you or your loved one receive the right support and guidance. In this post, I’ll walk you through the key diagnostic criteria for ADHD, explain what they mean in everyday life, and share ho

At CADS, one of the most common questions we hear is: “We think something is different — but we don’t know if it’s autism, ADHD, or both.” This uncertainty is understandable. Autism and ADHD share many traits that affect communication, emotions, learning, and daily life. Families often feel unsure which assessment to pursue or worry about choosing the wrong path. This post explores how to recognise the differences and overlaps between autism and ADHD, helping you decide whic

Living with undiagnosed ADHD as an adult can feel like trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces. You might find yourself struggling with focus, organisation, or impulsivity, and wonder if there’s more to it than just being “a bit forgetful” or “easily distracted.” Recognising adult ADHD signs is the first step towards understanding yourself better and seeking the right support. In this post, We’ll walk you through the key symptoms, what they look like in everyday life,

At CADS Autism & ADHD, we regularly support children, young people and adults who have co-occurring neurodivergent profiles , most commonly autism, ADHD and dyslexia. These neurotypes frequently overlap, and while this can bring genuine challenges, it also comes with distinctive strengths, ways of thinking and learning , and enormous potential. Understanding these overlaps is a crucial part of helping individuals develop self-understanding, confidence and self-esteem. ADHD an

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often seen as a condition that primarily affects the brain, focusing on attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Yet, emerging research suggests that ADHD may involve more than just cognitive and behavioural symptoms. Physical health factors such as inflammation, joint issues, and autonomic nervous system dysfunction appear to play a role in how ADHD presents and affects daily life. Understanding ADHD through a whole-body l

In today’s professional world, embracing diversity means more than just recognising different cultures or backgrounds. It also means understanding and valuing the unique ways our brains work. Neurodiversity is about recognising that people think, learn, and process information differently. This includes individuals with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological variations. When workplaces foster neurodiversity inclusion, they create environments where everyone can thrive

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of people worldwide, often making everyday tasks a struggle. From challenges in concentrating to impulsivity and hyperactivity, individuals with ADHD may find it difficult to maintain a routine or manage their time effectively. The good news is that numerous resources and tools are available to help manage these symptoms successfully. In this post, we will explore practical tools, emotional support systems, and

I recently found myself reflecting on my school years after a conversation with a client exploring her own experiences with undiagnosed ADHD. As she described her struggles, I recognised many of the same challenges in my own life. From difficulty focusing during lectures to impulsivity and memory lapses, especially as family life and menopause added new demands, it felt like looking into a mirror. This shared experience sparked a deeper understanding of how these traits shape

Did you know ADHD can present differently in adults than in children?

When you start thinking about whether you or your child might be neurodivergent, it can feel overwhelming. You want clear answers, but the process of getting assessed for autism or ADHD might seem confusing or slow. We're here to help you understand how dual autism / ADHD assessment methods work, what to expect, and how they can support you in finding the right path forward. Getting a thorough assessment is a crucial step. It’s not just about ticking boxes but about understa

Neurodiversity in the Workplace: A Guide for Employers Neurodiversity in the workplace is gaining recognition as an essential aspect of creating inclusive and productive environments. Employers in the UK have a legal and moral responsibility to support neurodivergent employees, including those with autism and ADHD. This support not only benefits individuals but also enhances overall workplace culture and performance. This guide explains employer responsibilities, practical wa

If you’ve ever wondered whether you or your child might have ADHD, you’re not alone. Many people seek clarity about their experiences and behaviours, hoping to understand themselves better. Getting a diagnosis can feel like a big step, but knowing what to expect from the process can make it much easier. In this post, I’ll walk you through the ADHD diagnostic criteria, explain how assessments work, and share what happens after diagnosis. Let’s explore this together in a straig

Today I had a really interesting conversation with a client about his experience of face blindness. He explained that when meeting new people, it can take him a long time to process all their features. Instead of recognising a face straightaway, he begins by noticing a person’s mannerisms, then tone of voice, then gradually moves from the outside of the body inwards, with the face itself being the last feature he is able to identify. I knew that this was relatively common in

For many autistic, ADHD, or otherwise neurodivergent children, attending a mainstream school every day can be emotionally, sensory, or socially overwhelming. Families often feel unsure of what alternatives exist or how to access suitable education that meets their child’s needs. This guide summarises local options, online learning pathways, specialist schools, and flexible support models  across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, and nearby areas. It is designed to help parent

Situational mutism is an anxiety-based communication difference . A child can speak in familiar, low-pressure settings but becomes unable to speak in more demanding environments. This may look like: Talking confidently at home but not at school. Whispering or mouthing words instead of speaking. Freezing when asked a question. Communicating only with a “safe person”. Avoiding situations where talking may be expected. Importantly, this is not a choice. The child typically want

Secondary school support for students with neurodiversity When a child is autistic, or is going through the assessment process, it is vital that the adults supporting them in school and at home understand their needs. High-quality, evidence-based training helps staff and parents feel confident in supporting communication, emotional regulation, sensory processing, and learning. Below is an overview of reputable local training options across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, an

Just had to share these powerful images reveal side-by-side brain activity in an individual with ADHD compared with a neurotypical brain, both recorded in the same environment, first at rest with eyes closed, and then while scrolling on a phone. The contrast is striking. The ADHD brain shows heightened, widespread activation, offering clear visual evidence that neurodivergent brains experience and process the world differently. While brain imaging has long been used in autism