Larissa Bennett, a Stockton volunteer, wins an award for her work raising ADHD awareness with Healthwatch.
She contacted Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees and shared her ADHD struggles with them. She wanted to help others in her community and volunteered to share her experiences. She aimed to change views on neurodiversity.
Together, they created a case study showing the lack of ADHD support and its impact on lives and families. It aimed for a better condition understanding. Afterwards, Larissa and Healthwatch planned community engagement to gather feedback on ADHD challenges.
People shared experiences before and after diagnosis. Healthwatch England used this report as part of a national campaign seeking system changes.
Larissa felt humbled by the award, never expecting to reach so many people. Healthwatch gave her a platform to share her message. She pushed for accessible support nationally and challenged old ideas about neurodiversity.
The award motivates her for continued change and she hopes it keeps the conversation alive. She wants real support for neurodivergent people. Natasha Douglas, who manages Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees, expressed delight in Larissa’s award.
Larissa is passionate about improving existing services and hopes to help others find support. She has been dedicated to this cause, wanting to overcome struggles and raise awareness.
Rita Lawson, Chief Executive at Tees Valley Rural Action, said Larissa’s dedication is inspiring. It is great to see her work recognized, showing the high standard of entries because of her passion. Volunteering can make meaningful differences.
Volunteering lets people focus on causes, break down barriers, and challenge ideas. Larissa’s work inspires others to contribute. Rita congratulated Larissa on the well-deserved award.
Larissa will join the HWS Executive Board to help shape local health services. She will also get advocate training and hopes to start a local peer support group.