Mother of girl who died calls for more ADHD help

A mother whose 14-year-old daughter died after waiting more than a year for an ADHD assessment has called for more to be done to support neurodivergent children.

Maisie Hoskins, from Alfreton, Derbyshire, died in hospital in July 2024 with a coroner concluding her death was "as a result of her impulsive actions".

Now her mother Josie Hoskins is working with the county's network of Neurohubs and wants more help available in schools for youngsters who face issues like her daughter, especially if they are awaiting a diagnosis.

"The children need somebody there to talk to", she said.

"They need someone they can speak to in confidence. We have somebody [Mental Health First Aiders] where I work but children don't".

Ms Hoskins told the BBC she wondered if Maisie would be here today if she had been assessed for ADHD and RSD (Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria).

"When Maisie first started school I did tell them that she struggled to focus, that she struggled with her concentration," she said.

"Academically, she was fine, she was in a higher class. But I think she came across as quite rude to some people because she just didn't focus sometimes."

The 47-year-old said despite facing the challenges of becoming a teenager, her daughter retained her many charms.

"She was very bubbly, she was very funny and she loved to sing," she said.

"She was a little crazy, just like me."

Neurohubs are a network of facilities in towns across Derbyshire which offer help and support to youngsters with conditions like ADHD, autism and dyspraxia.

They are funded by a partnership between NHS Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board, Derbyshire Autism Services, Citizens Advice Mid Mercia and a range of other charities.

Among them is Chesterfield-based Fairplay, which welcomes people up to the age of 30 with a range of activities including play sessions, cooking classes and a sensory room.

Maria Moore from Inkersall, whose 10 year-old-son attends sessions there, believes what is on offer is just as important for families.

"He's quite shy but they do things that he'd like to do," she said.

"A lot of places that are for 'normal' children don't want our kind of children there. They make too much noise or touch things they shouldn't."

Her praise for the Neurohub is echoed by her friend Rachel Oxer from Holme Hall in Chesterfield, whose 11-year-old-son lives with autism and also attends sessions at the venue.

"It makes you feel like you're not alone," she said. "My son got his diagnosis quickly but others face many hurdles and it can take a long time.

"Until you have the diagnosis there's a lack of empathy or support from doctors and teachers".

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, advice and support is available via the BBC Action Line.

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