Minister Mary Butler Unveils New Strategy as ADHD Ireland Sets Out Roadmap for a Future Where ADHD is Celebrated
Ambitious five-year plan aims to help transform the lives of 250,000 people with ADHD in Ireland
ADHD Ireland officially launched its strategic plan, ADHD Ireland Strategy Document 2026 – 2030, today at a special event in Dublin city centre, marking the beginning of a bold new chapter for the organisation and setting out an ambitious roadmap for creating a future where ADHD is understood, accepted, supported and celebrated.
The new five-year strategy, which was officially launched by Minister of State for Mental Health, Mary Butler TD, outlines ADHD Ireland’s vision to help transform the lives of an estimated 250,000 people with ADHD in Ireland, while strengthening understanding, acceptance and inclusion across Irish society.
As awareness of ADHD continues to grow and more individuals and families seek information, connection and support, the new strategy sets out how ADHD Ireland will continue to stand alongside the ADHD community, championing meaningful change and ensuring ADHD people are recognised, respected and supported to achieve their full potential.
Developed through extensive consultation with stakeholders and informed by lived experience, the Strategic Plan 2026–2030 is built around three core priorities – Influencing national policy through advocacy; Expanding the reach and impact of support services; and strengthening organisational capacity to meet growing demand.
The strategy also reaffirms ADHD Ireland’s commitment to neurodiversity and neuroaffirmative practice, ensuring ADHD people are actively involved in shaping services, policy development and public understanding.
The launch event brought together leaders from healthcare, research, advocacy and the ADHD community, with contributions from Associate Professor Consultant Jane McGrath, Dr Christina Kini-Seery and ADHD advocate Vikki Martin, representing clinical expertise, research and lived experience.
Ken Kilbride, CEO of ADHD Ireland, said, “Awareness of ADHD has grown significantly in recent years, but too many ADHD people continue to face barriers to assessment, support and inclusion. This strategy is about creating lasting change so that every ADHD person has the opportunity to thrive and be valued for who they are.”
He continued, “The launch of our Strategic Plan 2026–2030 marks an important milestone for ADHD Ireland. It reflects the voices, needs and aspirations of the community we serve and sets out a clear and ambitious pathway for the years ahead. We are committed to working collaboratively to build a more inclusive Ireland where ADHD is not simply recognised, but understood, accepted and celebrated.”
Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler TD said, “I am pleased to support the launch of ADHD Ireland’s Strategic Plan 2026–2030. This strategy highlights the importance of understanding neurodiversity, improving access to support and ensuring ADHD people can participate fully in all aspects of society.”
“I look forward to continuing my positive working relationship with ADHD Ireland and supporting the implementation of this new strategy in the years ahead.” the Minister concluded.
For more than 40 years, ADHD Ireland has provided advocacy, education and support services to individuals and families across the country. With demand for ADHD information and support continuing to rise, the organisation believes this strategy marks an important step towards a more inclusive Ireland where every ADHD person is empowered to thrive.
The ADHD Ireland Strategic Plan 2026–2030 is available to view from here – https://adhdireland.ie/adhd-ireland-strategic-plan-2026-2030/
