Autism & ADHD Parent Support UK CIC, founded by Kertrina Gearing, is a registered not-for-profit organisation supporting parents and carers of children who are Autistic or have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across the UK. The organisation offers a range of services including 1:1 parent support, online newsletters, and an in-person parent support group in Swanley and West Kingsdown, all designed to respect, support and empower parents and carers of children living with Autism and ADHD. As a registered Community Interest Company (CIC), the organisation is committed to strengthen communities through practical and emotional support.
We first met Kertrina when she began using Northview Hall, our community space in Swanley, to host her parent support sessions, which welcomed many West Kent residents. It was at these sessions that Katie Love, our Community Development Officer for Swanley told Kertrina about the West Kent Community Chest. Katie worked closely with Kertrina throughout this period, supporting her while the group needed a temporary venue during the renovation of Northview Hall and providing guidance on how to apply for the Community Chest grant.
The grant has been invaluable, supporting the creation of new promotional materials and contributing directly to the running of the weekly sessions. Funding had helped cover refreshments and well-being focused activities, including creative crafting workshops such as wreath and lantern making. These sessions offer parents a calm and welcoming environment to relax, reduce stress and connect with others who share similar experiences.
Reflecting on the impact of the grant, Kertrina shared: "The West Kent Community Chest grant has made such a difference to our families. It has supported us in being able to run a weekly, in-person group where parents can talk openly, feel understood and support one another. We've seen friendships form, confidence grow and well-being improve as parents realise they're part of a community that truly understands. It has also provided us the opportunity to run fun, member led activities that we very much wouldn't have been able to do without the support of the West Kent Community Chest Grant - so thank you!"
Kevin O'Reilly, our Funding and Social Value Lead, said: "Huge thanks to Autism & ADHD Parent Support UK CIC for delivering essential support for parents and carers in Swanley. I'm so pleased that our grant has contributed towards the wellbeing of West Kent families and the success of this much-needed project. Thanks also to our suppliers who have pledged to financially support the West Kent Community Chest so that we can continue to offer future grants to similar grassroots projects: AD Construction, Brenwards, Jenner and WW Martin".
Kertrina invites parents to shape the activities and conversations during the in-person support group, ensuring the group remains responsive, collaborative and rooted in the real needs of the attendees. The group has also welcomed visits from organisations such as IASK (Information, advice and Support Kent) and Beams, who support disabled children, young people and their families. These partnerships help families learn more about the wider support available and provide direct access to specialist advice.
You can read more about Autism & ADHD Parent Support UK CIC on their website, follow their Instagram and Facebook pages or join their Facebook support group to become part of their community.