Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is characterised by an overwhelming need to avoid and resist everyday demands, which is closely linked to high levels of anxiety and a strong...
What is Autism? A Parent’s Guide to Understanding
When a parent first hears that their child may be autistic, it’s common to feel a mix of emotions such as curiosity, relief, worry, or even confusion...
Autism and Adults: Understanding Your Diagnosis
For some adults, questions about autism arise after years of feeling “different” but not knowing why. For others, it follows the diagnosis of a child, partner, or family...
Reasonable Adjustments in University
Under the Equality Act 2010, universities have a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled students, including neurodivergent students...
Reasonable Adjustments in Secondary School
Under the Equality Act 2010, schools have a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments to ensure students are not placed at a substantial disadvantage...
Equality Act and Reasonable Adjustments
When children, young people, or adults face barriers to learning or work, a question we are often asked is: "Do I need a diagnosis before I can receive support?"...
Understanding ADHD: A Guide for Parents
If you’re reading this, you may be wondering whether your child might have ADHD, or perhaps your child already has a diagnosis. Eitherway, you’re not alone...
Understanding Neurodivergent Burnout
Many neurodivergent people describe periods where everyday tasks suddenly feel overwhelming. Things that once felt manageable such as going to school or work, socialising...
Understanding Masking and After-school Meltdowns
Constantly monitoring behaviour, suppressing natural responses, and trying to “get it right” is exhausting. By the end of the school day, many children have used up all their..
What’s in a name? Rethinking ADHD
Here at AYC, we’ve been reflecting on the term ADHD, “Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder” and how it doesn’t really capture the reality of the condition...

