Category: Upcoming Seminars

  • Learn about the impact of Parents Plus charity in the UK National Centre for Family Hubs, Northumberland case study

    Learn about the impact of Parents Plus charity in the UK National Centre for Family Hubs, Northumberland case study

    Northumberland Case Study: Working with Separated Parents 

    Background

    Family hubs offer universal and targeted support for all children and families, including those where parents have separated or are separating. 

    Family Solutions Group highlighted that in 2021 there were 2.3 million separated families in the UK, affecting 3.6 million children. The report What about me? A child’s right to matter recommends that family hubs “recognise children whose parents separate as a discrete target group in need of support and direct services through the national family hub programmes.”

    Learn about the impact of Parents Plus charity in the UK National Centre for Family Hubs, Northumberland case study published in The National Centre Family Hubs and Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families website.

    You can book a place on this evidence-based professional training via the button below.

    See our training page for details of all trainings

  • Parents Plus Early Years Programme One Module Training in Core Delivery 8th October 2024

    Parents Plus Early Years Programme One Module Training in Core Delivery 8th October 2024

    The Core delivery of the Parents Plus Early Years programme (PPEY) is an alternative to the original delivery format of the programme. The concepts of the original programme and the written materials for parents have been adapted to become more accessible to a wider range of parents.

    This alternative delivery allows facilitators to run the programme with individual families in a flexible manner, shaped to their needs over an extended period of time.

    For facilitators already trained in the PPEY, we offer a special one-module training on May 28th, 2024, to demonstrate how to use the PPEY Core Programme, which includes an introduction to the new format and content, a recap of solution-focused video feedback skills, and copies of the new Parent Pack and Facilitator notes.

    This special one module training to show you how to use the PPEY Core will take place on the 8th October 2024 (9:15am-1:30pm) online via Zoom.

    This training workshop will –
    *Introduce you to new PPEY core format and content
    * Recaps on skills of solution-focused video feedback
    Copies of the new Parent Pack and Facilitator notes are included.

    You can book a place on this special one-module training via the button below.

    See our training page for details of all trainings

  • Parents Plus Early Years Programme in Falkirk

    Parents Plus Early Years Programme in Falkirk

    “My name is Susi Wakely and I am a Senior Educational Psychologist at Falkirk Council, Scotland.

    The Parents Plus Early Years programme (PPEY) is a 7-week-long course delivered by professionals. At Falkirk Council, the programme was delivered to families of children with significant additional support needs.

    Speaking of the programme, Senior Educational Psychologist, Susi Wakely explains,

    The Parents Plus Early Years programme materials encourage parents to connect with each other and feel empowered to support themselves. They emphasise the power of the group dynamic, creating a safe space where parents can be more authentic and share hard truths. This means parents freely giving tips and advice to each other.

    I work with some of the families in my casework and I can see the increase in the engagement and confidence of the parents who attended our first group.

    Over the weeks we witnessed the added benefits of the programme in supporting the wider families. Parents who attended shared with their partners who were unable to attend, or the parents took it in turns to attend, and one couple attended together. In the second to last session, the husband who attended with his wife openly praised her on the strategies she was using from the programme already. He is by nature a very reserved man and it was powerful to see him come out of his shell and openly praise his wife in the group. They have a child with significant ASN and shared how isolated they had felt prior to coming to the group. 

    Parents Plus deliver a cost-effective, strengths-based series of parenting programmes. Parents are fully engaged and take ownership of the group. My co-facilitator Alice says it is a group for parents, not a parenting group. The programme fits well with our relationship-based service values.

    The Parents Plus team are true to their principles and values – they empower us as facilitators and believe in us as much as we then believe in the parents. They could not be more supportive as an organisation – they want to make it as simple as possible for you as a professional to be trained and get going with a programme. There are no unnecessary barriers and costs with accreditation processes. 

    You are trusted as a facilitator to work with the materials and make them work for the group of parents you are supporting. This is a very different approach to other parenting programmes. 

    The materials in the programme are high quality, too. Parents loved the glossy parent books and enjoyed the videos. We had only to sift through the contents each week to pick out the activities and assets that would be most appropriate for our ASN group and did not need to modify anything. 

    We’d like to say a big thanks to Parents’ Plus for their support in getting our programmes up and running in Falkirk.


    The Core delivery of the Parents Plus Early Years programme (PPEY) is an alternative to the original delivery format of the programme. The concepts of the original programme and the written materials for parents have been adapted to become more accessible to a wider range of parents.

    This alternative delivery allows facilitators to run the programme with individual families in a flexible manner, shaped to their needs over an extended period of time.

    For facilitators already trained in the PPEY, we offer a special one-module training on May 28th, 2024, to demonstrate how to use the PPEY Core Programme, which includes an introduction to the new format and content, a recap of solution-focused video feedback skills, and copies of the new Parent Pack and Facilitator notes.

    This special one module training to show you how to use the PPEY Core will take place on the 28th May 2024 (9:15am-1:30pm) online via Zoom.

    This training workshop will –
    *Introduce you to new PPEY core format and content
    * Recaps on skills of solution-focused video feedback
    Copies of the new Parent Pack and Facilitator notes are included.

    You can book a place on this special one-module training via the button below.

    See our training page for details of all trainings

  • Parents Plus in Partnership with Falkirk Council

    Parents Plus in Partnership with Falkirk Council

    “My name is Alice Grant and I am an Additional Support Needs (ASN) Outreach Teacher. I trained to deliver the Parents Plus Early Years programme in September 2022, and then ran one group from May to June 2023.

    “During the programme, which ran in person for seven weeks, we were able to see significant shifts in parents’ attitudes and thinking.

    “One notable point of the programme was when the parents reflected on the importance of encouraging and spending time with all of their children rather than focusing most on their child with ASN. They found that using the strategies with all of their children was beneficial for the whole family. 

    “The parents have established their own WhatsApp group and plan to stay in touch and arrange meet-ups with their children during the summer.

    “One parent summed up the general feeling from the group: “The course made me feel less lonely and that others experience the same things with their kids. We are going through similar experiences. It makes me feel more normal.”

    “Parents Plus have been, and continue to be, a pleasure to work with. At all stages we have been supported to make the programme a success, and we have felt that Parents Plus staff are helping and working with us, never just trying to sell us something or advocate a single approach. They are supportive, generous with time and materials, and always available to deal with queries.”


    The Core delivery of the Parents Plus Early Years programme (PPEY) is an alternative to the original delivery format of the programme. The concepts of the original programme and the written materials for parents have been adapted to become more accessible to a wider range of parents.

    This alternative delivery allows facilitators to run the programme with individual families in a flexible manner, shaped to their needs over an extended period of time.

    For facilitators already trained in the PPEY, we offer a special one-module training on May 28th, 2024, to demonstrate how to use the PPEY Core Programme, which includes an introduction to the new format and content, a recap of solution-focused video feedback skills, and copies of the new Parent Pack and Facilitator notes.

    This special one module training to show you how to use the PPEY Core will take place on the 28th May 2024 (9:15am-1:30pm) online via Zoom.

    This training workshop will –
    *Introduce you to new PPEY core format and content
    * Recaps on skills of solution-focused video feedback
    Copies of the new Parent Pack and Facilitator notes are included.

    You can book a place on this special one-module training via the button below.

    See our training page for details of all trainings

  • Watch The Presentations From Our ADHD Seminar

    Watch The Presentations From Our ADHD Seminar

    We’re delighted to announce that the presentations from our seminar, “Improving Outcomes for Children with ADHD by Empowering Parents,” are now available to watch.

    This event showcased insights and practical strategies for supporting children with ADHD. Our speakers, including professionals in child psychiatry and mental health, shared valuable knowledge aimed at enhancing outcomes for these children.

    The importance of parenting programmes for ADHD – Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Associate Professor in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry UCD School of Medicine, Dr Blanaid Gavin.


    How the Parents Plus ADHD Programme works for Families – Professor John Sharry, University College Dublin School of Psychology, Clinical Director at Parents Plus, and leading innovator in solution-focused practice.


    Delivering the ADHD Programme through CAMHS –

    Lisa Whitlock Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust.


    Getting a Parent Group Started – 

    Nonsi Mabhena, Nurse Therapist and Rebecca Taylor Registered Physician Associate, ADHD Pathway,  Tower Hamlets CAMHS


    About the Parents Plus ADHD Programme

    The ADHD programme is a new modified version of the evidence based Parents Plus Children’s programme that addresses the needs of parents of children with ADHD aged 6-12 years. The programme is flexible and can be delivered to small groups or with individuals over 8-12 weeks.

    Developed with flexibility in mind, the programme can be delivered to small groups or individual parents over a span of 8-12 weeks. It is a tool for professionals supporting families and children displaying ADHD symptoms such as restlessness, inability to concentrate, excessive physical movement, and impulsivity in conversation.

    By participating in this facilitator training, professionals will gain a deep understanding of ADHD and its impacts on family dynamics. They’ll learn effective strategies for managing behavioural and emotional problems, boosting children’s self-esteem and confidence, and helping parents reduce their own stress levels. The programme also covers the role of medication and other treatments, strategies to manage homework and educational challenges, and ways to support children in developing friendships and discussing their ADHD.

    The five-module training provided equips facilitators not only with the skills to deliver the ADHD programme but also the Parents Plus Children’s Programme. The training emphasises developing a thorough understanding of the needs of families with a child with ADHD, delivering the programme effectively through both face-to-face and online sessions, and building on parents’ strengths to foster ongoing positive changes.

    This facilitator training is suitable for a diverse range of professionals, including:

    • Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) Teams
    • Primary Care Teams  
    • GPs
    • Family Support Services
    • Early Intervention and Prevention Teams
    • Teachers
    • ADHD charities
    • Child Protection Teams

    Feedback from studies in primary schools, mental health, and disability settings has shown that families who complete the programme report significant improvements. These include increased positive social behavior in children, reduced behavior and emotional problems, decreased parental stress, and increased parental confidence

    The Parents Plus ADHD Programme is about empowering parents and professionals with the knowledge and tools to nurture resilient, confident children with ADHD, and fostering stronger, healthier family relationships. The next ADHD Children’s Programme training takes place on the 19th, 20th, 21st, 26th & 27th February 2024 from 9.15am – 1.30pm. Click here to book your place.
    Online, Zoom

  • ‘Improving Outcomes for Children with ADHD by Empowering Parents’ – Showcase Presentations

    ‘Improving Outcomes for Children with ADHD by Empowering Parents’ – Showcase Presentations

    Watch Our Showcase Presentations From Seminar – ‘Improving Outcomes for Children with ADHD by Empowering Parents’

    Parents Plus, the charity who develop evidence-based parenting and mental health programmes for services supporting families, were delighted to present a unique FREE online seminar for mental health professionals titled ‘Improving Outcomes for Children with ADHD by Empowering Parents’, which took place late last October where we shared our specialist ADHD programme, its impact for services and families in the UK, and the valuable insights we have gathered.

    Key speakers on the day included Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Associate Professor in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, UCD School of Medicine, Dr Blanaid Gavin, and Professor John Sharry from UCD and Clinical Director at Parents Plus. Who shared their expertise on improving outcomes for ADHD treatment and essential information for mental health professionals to share with parents of children with ADHD.

    In addition, Lisa Whitlock from Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust presented on the value of delivering the Parents Plus ADHD Programme through Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Clinical Nurse Specialist and Mental Health Lecturer at the University of the West of England, Fred Ehresman, also shared best practices for ensuring effective group delivery for families.
    Crucially, this event will also centre around the lived experiences of families navigating ADHD.

    We also heard first-hand from two parents who have completed a Parents Plus ADHD Programme journey.

    For anyone who missed this unique event you can watch back the key presentations below.

    ADHD Children’s Programme Background / John Sharry
    CAMHS & ADHD Children’s Programme / Lisa Whitlock
    Importance of Parenting Programmes in ADHD / Dr Blánaid Gavin
    Running the Parents Plus ADHD programme in a CAMHS Service

    You can learn more about our ADHD Programme by clicking here!

    If you would like to train in any of our programmes, learn about our group discounts or discover how we can support you to improve outcomes for children, adolescents and families, please contact our Impact Lead, Vicki Byrne, Vicki@parentsplus.ie 

    You can also explore our 2024 training options by clicking here! Where you will also be able to download our Programme brochure.

  • Unlocking CPD Benefits With Parents Plus

    Unlocking CPD Benefits With Parents Plus

    In today’s fast-evolving healthcare landscape, continuous professional development (CPD) remains the cornerstone for healthcare professionals eager to keep their knowledge updated, and services impactful.

    Parents Plus, cognizant of the pivotal role CPD plays, is delighted to offer a FREE online seminar, Improving Outcomes for Children with ADHD by Empowering Parents.

    In this update we will explore why our FREE online seminar stands out as a CPD opportunity and goes beyond its enlightening content on empowering parents for better ADHD outcomes.

    Who is this Seminar for?
    The FREE seminar is suitable for a range of professionals, including:

    •  Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) Teams
    • Primary Care Teams
    • GPs
    • Family Support Services
    • Early Intervention and Prevention Teams
    • Teachers
    • ADHD charities
    • Child Protection Teams  

    Why Attend the Parents Plus Seminar?

    1. Evidence-Based Insights: The seminar is poised to bring forth insights rooted in real-world case studies, experiences, and research.
    2. Diverse Perspectives: Learn directly from professionals, including Dr. Blánaid Gavin and Professor John Sharry, providing a rounded, holistic understanding of the subject.
    3. Interactive Learning: Engage in discussions, Q&A sessions, and network with peers.

    What is the purpose of CPD for healthcare professionals?

    CPD serves as an educational process, facilitating professionals in maintaining and enhancing their knowledge, skills, and abilities. It’s a commitment to lifelong learning – professionals who make this commitment for their service users are ensuring that they receive the highest quality care informed by the latest research, techniques, and methodologies.

    What is the importance and benefits of CPD?

    1. Knowledge & Skill Augmentation: CPD allows professionals to fill gaps in their expertise, ensuring they remain effective, competent, and meet both short and long-term career goals.
    2. Staying Updated: Healthcare is an ever-evolving field. CPD ensures that professionals are not just updated but are at the forefront of these changes.
    3. Increased Confidence: Regular CPD ensures healthcare professionals have the utmost confidence in their skills and knowledge, promoting a higher degree of patient trust.
    4. Professional Network Expansion: CPD often presents opportunities for professionals to connect with peers and experts, expanding their professional network and opening doors to collaborations, partnerships, and referrals.

    What are the benefits of CPD for you, service users, and your service?

    • For You: Beyond skill and knowledge augmentation, CPD empowers professionals with a renewed sense of purpose, direction, and motivation in their roles. It can also serve as a roadmap for career advancement and specialization.
    • Service User: Professionals working with families and children who are committed to CPD give their service users access to the most recent and effective interventions, treatments, and care. It ensures safety, efficacy, and can lead to better health outcomes.
    • For the Service: Organizations that prioritize CPD find themselves better equipped to adapt to industry changes, ensure patient satisfaction, and maintain a reputation for excellence in care delivery.

    How can I integrate this FREE CPD opportunity into my professional journey?

    • You can register to attend our online seminar ‘Improving Outcomes for Children with ADHD by Empowering Parents here.
    • You can Click here to add the seminar details to your calendar.
    • You can recognise the potential for professional growth and share with peers who’d value this opportunity.

    Parents Plus is a charity that builds the capacity of services to improve outcomes for families by training and supervising professionals in our eight flagship evidence-based parenting and mental health programmes.

    If you’re interested in discussing training and supervision for your team, securing discounts for bookings of six or more people, or learning our tailored support in the roll-out and evaluation of the programmes to ensure effective community-wide delivery, please reach out.

    Contact our Impact Lead, Vicki Byrne, at vicki@parentsplus.ie or phone 085-8705772.