Sam's story
When Sam’s eldest son was just seven years old (he is now 31), she found herself struggling and unsure of where to turn. She was given the phone number of Anne, (founder of ADD-vance) and had a long chat with her over the phone. Back in the early days of ADD-vance, the helpline ran out of Anne’s kitchen!
Years later, when another of her children was going through a difficult time, Sam turned to ADD-vance again, this time for parent coaching. Despite having a professional background in social work, Sam found that no amount of training prepares you for being an exhausted Mum at home trying to support a child who is deeply struggling. The coaching they received was a true turning point, massively changing life at home for her family.
“I’ve got to be 100% honest, massively changed our lives… the coaching we had through ADD-vance completely changed things for us at home.”
Today, Sam has come full circle. For the past year and a half, she has been working on the ADD-vance Support Hub, answering calls daily from parents facing their own tough times. Having walked in their shoes, Sam knows that parents don’t need lectures or magic wands; they need a compassionate voice from someone who has been where they are.
Through ADD-vance’s workshops, support groups, and parent helpline, Sam continues to learn and pass on hope. Her advice to anyone considering reaching out is straightforward:
“Do it – you’ve got nothing to lose. Friends and family don’t always understand what we’re going through, but we will listen, share experiences, and lighten the load.”
As ADD-vance celebrates 30 years of impact, Sam looks forward to seeing the charity grow even stronger, supporting children, parents/carers, and future generations for the next 30 years.
If you would like to contact the Support Hub, please call us on 01727 833 963 or email supporthub@add-vance.org
Whether you need practical advice, emotional support, or simply a listening ear, we’re here for you.
Together, we can make sure no family in Hertfordshire is left without support
Stories like Sam’s are why we do what we do.
Please consider making a donation today to help us reach more families and ensure every neurodivergent child and young person has the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you for your support.
