The ADD-vantage was born from the impact of my own late diagnosis of ADHD, and that of my then 16-year-old daughter. Although I was aware I struggled with attention and knew I could be impulsive, I did not suspect that I had ADHD largely because my son was diagnosed at 10 years old, and I was ‘nothing like him!’. He had been my measure of what it was to have the condition.

All the evidence supports that best outcomes for those with ADHD are achieved with early identification and targeted support. Living with undiagnosed and unsupported ADHD can be very damaging. Many internalise their ADHD symptoms and their challenges in education / the workplace is masked (hidden) from those who might be observing, because we just want to ‘fit’. As a result, we have low self-esteem, we under achieve, we develop mental health conditions or fall into risky behaviours. I am passionate about using my experience to help girls and women in particular grow into their symptoms and learn to see ADHD as a strength, fuelling their drive and success.

The ADD-vantage works to support girls and women to live well with ADHD through awareness, advocacy, education, coaching and creating community.

We envisage a world where:

1. everyone has a true understanding of the nature of ADHD, and how the female experience can be different from the ‘expected’ presentation

2. girls and women with ADHD receive the early targeted support that they need to flourish, and where they access the same opportunities as their peers

3. girls and women with ADHD can embrace their strengths and qualities to thrive and grow into the best versions of themselves.

Who We Support

We run two key community programmes in Hertfordshire:

Women’s Support Group - Coffee & Connection – a safe, welcoming space where women with ADHD can connect, share experiences, build confidence, and access support and guidance. It helps members embrace their strengths, develop coping strategies, and feel less alone.

The Spark Squad (Youth Group, 11–17) – a new initiative providing mentoring, peer support, and psycho-education for girls with ADHD. Led by women with lived experience, Spark Squad helps young people develop resilience, build skills, and grow into their full potential.

Both groups are vital. Together they create a pathway of support that starts in adolescence and continues into adulthood, ensuring that no woman or girl with ADHD feels left behind.

Why We Need Your Help

• Your donations will go directly towards:

• Training and supervision for mentors

• Running group sessions and workshops

• Creating resources and activity materials

• Supporting families alongside participants

• Sustaining and expanding both women’s and youth programmes

Every contribution helps us keep these life-changing groups running. By supporting us, you are investing in confidence, resilience, and brighter futures for women and girls with ADHD across Hertfordshire.

Together, we can turn challenges into strengths and spark change that lasts a lifetime.