A Lifeline for Families in Need

In a heartfelt response to the overwhelming waiting times for autism and ADHD assessments, a new charity has emerged, offering hope to families left in limbo. The Roxi Foundation, based in Swindon, Wiltshire, was founded by the family of a young woman following her arduous journey to receive a diagnosis.

Inspired by Personal Experience

Matt Pound, the father of the young woman, recognized the struggles faced by others: "If we’re struggling, then other families must be too." The foundation aims to provide grants for private assessments, helping speed up the process that typically keeps families waiting for years.

Transformative Impact on Lives

One poignant story comes from Julian, whose daughter, Hannah, spent over two years on a waiting list before the Roxi Foundation came to her aid. Once non-communicative and withdrawn, Hannah underwent a funded assessment and was later diagnosed with both ADHD and autism. Since then, Julian reports, "We came back with a different child. She has been more conversive with us than she’s ever been in the last three years." This transformation has been life-changing for the entire family.

Facing National Challenges with Local Solutions

The Roxi Foundation is a beacon of hope amid widespread reports of lengthy NHS wait times affecting patients across the country. Despite only being able to fund three assessments so far due to financial constraints—totaling nearly £3,900—the charity has received 19 enquiries, signaling a critical demand for its services.

Fundraising Efforts on the Rise

In response to these challenges, fundraising efforts are ramping up, with an ambitious goal of raising £20,000 in 2025, building on the £7,000 raised through various events in 2024. Matt Pound notes, "I saw firsthand how difficult it was to get any kind of support," emphasizing the emotional toll on families in distress.

Collaboration with NHS for Better Futures

While acknowledging the struggles families face in accessing timely support, Mr. Pound doesn’t disregard the NHS's challenges. He states, "They do the best they can with the resources they have." The NHS Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board is reportedly working on improving the situation by creating a new integrated neurodevelopmental pathway to ensure earlier interventions.

A Call to Action

The Roxi Foundation not only funds assessments but also provides crucial advice for families who find themselves "at their wits' end," further demonstrating its commitment to making a tangible difference in the autism community. These efforts illustrate a powerful blend of personal experience and community support designed to bring hope and healing to those affected by long waiting times.