What can I expect?

Odyssey PDA is a peer-to-peer support group for parents / caregivers of individuals (both adults and children) diagnosed with, or thought to have, the autism profile of PDA.  The group is co-ordinated by Hilary and provides an opportunity to meet informally, share experiences, and positively support each other.   The group can’t promise to solve problems but everyone who joins is willing to listen and share ideas. 

As the group is not a registered company, charity or CIC and only offers peer-to-peer support there are no formal policies to share, although GDPR and safeguarding have been considered and further information shared as appropriate.

Odyssey PDA receives no financial funding, so all members are asked to pay for activities when needed; we try to keep things free or to a minimum cost. 

Hilary's experience:

I’m not a trained PDA professional but have lived experience of PDA through my children and work at the PDA Society. 

I’ve always enjoyed supporting and helping others with my professional background being in personnel and administration.  I’ve also served as pension scheme trustee for a registered charity supporting the British Armed Forces, have been the treasurer for a local church and a volunteer at both local and county level within the Scout Association.

I’m a member of the PDA Society’s Support Group Leaders Network as well as being a serving Trustee. 

I’m also a member of the PLACE Network and help support two WhatsApp Support groups within Parental Minds (based in Devon) as a parent with lived PDA experience. 

Further details about the group can be found under General group info, with quick links to support group meetings shared below: