Course 06

ADHD in Social Care

For Foster Carers, Social Workers & Care Staff

In social care settings, ADHD can have a major impact on behaviour, relationships, emotional regulation, education, placement stability, and wellbeing. Yet many children, young people, and adults with ADHD are still described only in terms of their behaviour — rather than being understood in terms of the underlying neurodevelopmental difficulties.

Who is this course for?

  • Social workers
  • Foster carers
  • Residential childcare workers
  • Family support workers & leaving care teams
  • Support workers & care workers
  • Youth workers & safeguarding teams
  • Managers within social care services

Course Details

Duration 3 Hours
Format Online interactive training

What the course covers

A comprehensive exploration of ADHD in social care contexts.

  • Understanding ADHD — what it is and how it affects the brain
  • How ADHD presents in children and adults — impulsivity, hyperactivity, inattention, emotional dysregulation
  • ADHD in social care settings — foster care, residential care, looked after children
  • Comorbidity and complexity — trauma, anxiety, depression, autism, attachment difficulties
  • Challenging behaviour — understanding what might be driving it
  • Treatment options and ongoing support
  • Interactive case studies — realistic scenarios for practical application

Learning Outcomes

  • A clear understanding of ADHD and how it presents

  • More confidence in recognising ADHD in children and adults

  • Greater awareness of complexity and comorbidity

  • Practical insight into responding to challenging behaviour more effectively

  • Better understanding of treatment options and supports available

  • Improved confidence in supporting looked after children and vulnerable adults with ADHD

This is not just about behaviour management. It is about understanding the person behind the behaviour. A better understanding of ADHD can help build stronger relationships, reduce conflict, and improve long-term outcomes.