THE founder of a support group for Islanders with ADHD has said securing a permanent base is a “huge moment” for the community.
Rachel Boss of ADHD Jersey made the comments after being handed the keys to a new dedicated hub in St Helier that will allow the organisation to expand its services amid growing demand.
The new space, located in the former Hepburns Insurance building at 6/7 Mulcaster Street, has been provided to the non-profit for 18 months through a donation from Islands Insurance.
It will be used to run face-to-face sessions, host meetings, and expand the group’s educational and advocacy work.
Autism Jersey will also use part of the premises for storage and occasional training.
Ms Boss said: “This is our first major donation and it’s a huge moment for us. It means we finally have a proper base where we can welcome people, run support sessions and grow. It gives our team and volunteers somewhere to meet, plan and keep building what we’ve started.”
It comes after a surge in referrals in recent years has overwhelmed the ADHD service and led to a backlog of around 900 patients – with wait times stretching beyond four years for those seeking a diagnosis.
Ms Boss added: “A massive thank you to Islands Insurance for believing in what we’re building. You’ve given us the chance to create something lasting for the ADHD community in Jersey.”
The building is due to open in the coming weeks, and the team is appealing for furniture, office equipment and tech to help get the space up and running.
“We’ll be opening as soon as it’s decorated and furnished,” Ms Boss said. “If anyone has furniture, tech or office equipment they’re happy to donate, we’d honestly be so grateful. It will make a real difference.”
Islands Insurance Group Managing Director Tim Brangwyn said the company was proud to be involved.
“At the heart of our community is the wellbeing of every individual. Compassion, understanding and support are vital so we’re very proud to help ADHD Jersey and Autism Jersey in their vital work.”
