Support for children with autism and ADHD strengthened thanks to youth fund grant

Parenting Special Children, a local charity supporting young people with special needs, has received further financial support from the John Sykes Foundation for their 'Auticulate' group in Reading.

Through 'Auticulate', Parenting Special Children supports young people with autism and ADHD attending mainstream schools and recently received a grant from the John Sykes Foundation's Reading Youth Fund, match-funded via the Big Give campaign to £2,000. As part of the foundation's ongoing commitment to supporting charities who work with young people in Reading, John Sykes was invited to the session by Ruth Pearse, founder of Parenting Special Children, and engaged with members of the 'Auticulate' group.

Stuart and Amanda Stephens, the parents of Olly Stephens, also attended the group session as part of one of the pillars of 'Olly’s Legacy' is supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities. 'Auticulate' provides a crucial space for young individuals with autism and ADHD to connect, share experiences, and receive valuable support and the grant aims to enhance the resources and reach of this essential group.

At the bi-weekly sessions, Parenting Special Children teaches a wide range of social, communication, and life skills to the young people through a programme of education, discussion, role-play, peer mentoring and real-life practice in a range of everyday experiences, including using public transport, shopping, restaurants and cafes, and leisure activities.

John Sykes said: "The 'Auticulate' group plays an essential role in supporting young people with autism and ADHD as they grow and we are honoured to contribute to this mission. Thank you for inviting us to join in with the group's session and witness the vibrancy of the young people.

"Through this collaboration, we aim to empower young minds and promote inclusion and self-expression. Our contribution to the 'Auticulate' group is more than just financial support; it's an investment in the growth and well-being of our youth."

The recent visit from the John Sykes Foundation allowed members of the foundation to witness the positive impact of the grant first-hand, engaging with the young participants and the dedicated organisers, as well as gaining insight into the unique challenges and triumphs of those navigating autism and ADHD. Parenting Special Children empowers families whose children are neurodivergent, have special needs, and/or have experienced early-life trauma.

The 'Auticulate' group specifically supports young people aged between eight and 16 years old who attend a mainstream school and therefore may not receive such tailored lessons to their additional needs elsewhere.

Amanda and Stuart Stephens said: "What an evening. We really loved being a part of the session with the chance to meet the children. Our hearts went out to them, all so original, truly themselves in the safe space your team has created.

"We saw reminders of Olly and for that, we are forever thankful. Please keep doing what you do Ruth, you and your team. What you have created, is amazing, so vital for children and parents and full of love."

Ruth Pearse said: "I am always blown away at how brave these young people are every day and it is a privilege to be able to hear their stories and how they navigate life and support them as much as we can. Thank you to John and the foundation for your ongoing support for Parenting Special Children, your funding is really significant for these young people.

"Amanda and Stuart, thank you for your ongoing love and support. We are creating a safe place for young people to share and we really appreciate all that you do in memory of Olly to make a difference to so many young people."

If you work or belong to a local charity or organisation and would like to know more or apply for a grant from the Reading Youth Fund, visit www.johnsykesfoundation.org/reading-youth-fund.php.

Submitted by the John Sykes Foundation

Location: Reading, Berkshire