18/09/2006

Many ADHD pupils 'excluded from school'

More than a third of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been excluded from school, a new report has claimed.

The survey of over 500 families, carried out by the Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service found that 39% had had a child excluded from class, with 11% of those being permanent exclusions.

Many parents said that they did believe that enough support was available for children with ADHD and their families. Around two thirds of respondents said that their child's ability to achieve at school was very affected by their condition. However, more than two thirds of parents said that they did not have access to a local ADHD clinic, nurse or advisory teacher.

Around 80% of parents also said that they felt their child had low self-esteem compared to other children.

The survey also showed the impact that the condition had on the rest of the family. Nearly two thirds of parents said that they had suffered marital problems as a result of their child's condition.

The symptoms of ADHD include failure to pay close attention to detail, difficulty in concentrating, excessive distractibility, forgetfulness, fidgeting and an inability to sit still.

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."

(KMcA/SP)

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