Carole Brecker, Lead for the CNNS Neurodiversity Support Group, shares an insight into the group and why it was set up.
Carole, along with Helen Birns set up a support group at Cockfosters and New Southgate Synagogue for parents, grandparents, and carers of young people living with ASC (Autism Spectrum Continuum) and ADHD, as well as those awaiting a diagnosis. The group is growing from strength to strength and is open to the whole community, not just those who belong to the Shul.
Carole explains the motivating factors for setting up the group and why it is so important. “The support group at CNSS aims to provide a safe, understanding, and informative environment for individuals with ASD and ADHD, and their family and carers. Raising a young person who is neurodiverse can bring great joy but also challenges. Navigating every stage is not easy, from attaining a diagnosis to school, to daily life. It can create feelings of isolation and loneliness, and we wanted to help prevent this.
“Helen and I have a wealth of experience working with and supporting young people and families with neurodiversity. I was Head of SEN at Wolfson Hillel Jewish Primary school for 28 years and Helen worked for Resources for Autism, a charity offering support, services, and training for autistic people, families, and professionals in London and the West Midlands. We wanted to use our combined expertise to continue to support the community in a voluntary capacity.
“It can be challenging for parents and carers in many ways, not just emotionally, but also being able to access accurate and up-to-date information and knowing what support is available. We hope to be able to provide support as well as signpost to agencies that can offer further support.
“We also want to create a space for individuals to share their experiences, feelings, and concerns, and receive empathy and understanding from others who face similar challenges and have lived experience.
“We are delighted by the response the meetings have received. Attendees have offered their help and support, and are really invested in helping the group be successful, bringing their skills and knowledge, including a SENCO in current employment, as well as a mother to children with neurodiversity.
“We are already seeing positive outcomes from the group, including a WhatsApp group which was initiated and set up by attendees, so they can continue supporting one another between meetings.
“We welcome everyone in the community who feels this may be of benefit to come along. You are very welcome to email the synagogue office for a confidential chat. You don’t have to walk this path alone our next meeting is on Wednesday, 13 August at 7.30pm.”
A Parent’s Perspective
One attendee recently shared their experience:
“I attended the group with my daughter, whose son has ADHD and is being assessed for ASC. We found it so supportive to share each other’s stories and to feel that help is out there. It was fantastic networking for my daughter, who said she had never been to anything like it. I’m already looking forward to the next meeting.”
Come and Join Us
Our next meeting will be held on Tuesday 13 August at 7.30pm with a guest speaker from Norwood Children’s Services. Whether you’re coming for advice, connection, or just to listen, you’ll be warmly welcomed. For more information contact; [email protected]
United Synagogue Disability Inclusion
The United Synagogue is committed to disability inclusion, and we are pleased that CNSS has launched this support group. For parent carers living in or near the Herts Communities, we have Herts for Change – A Step Forward in Building Inclusive Jewish Communities – United Synagogue with the next meeting scheduled for 12th September. HGSS Support Circle will also be launching their support groups in the autumn.
Click here to contact the Inclusion team (https://theus.org.uk/what-we-do/accessibility/)