The LANC is the longest established independent UK multidisciplinary clinic specialising in the management of ADHD and related neurodevelopmental difficulties. It was established in 1993 by Dr Geoff Kewley out of concern at the lack of availability at that stage of adequate assessment and management services to people who may have had ADHD and related difficulties.  The centre has been at the forefront of increased awareness over the years of ADHD and its incorporation into the delivery of effective educational and mental health services for children and adults.

Over the years approximately 5000 children, adolescents and adults have been assessed at the centre.  Approximately 1500 people are currently under ongoing management.  Staff at the centre are extremely experienced in the management of children, adolescents and adults, not only with the more straightforward conditions but  particularly those people with complex difficulties who may not only have ADHD but also autistic spectrum difficulties, conduct disorder, specific learning difficulties, Tourette's, syndrome, etc.

Increasingly over the years adults with ADHD have been seen, especially with the increased recognition that ADHD is frequently a lifelong condition.  Currently approximately 25% of all people seen at the centre at adults.  In addition we care for a large group of people between 16 to 25 years of age and help them cope with the frequently difficult transition between paediatric and adult services, a service which is not always available within conventional service delivery in the NHS.  The period where the structure and scaffolding of school minimises and the adolescent has to cope with the difficulties of ADHD as they are progressing towards long-term employment and relationships, is frequently fraught with problems. The clinic frequently works with employers in employment relation issues where ADHD difficulties have impacted on the workplace. 

Common referral patterns include people who were gifted and who also have ADHD - a particular interest to staff at the clinic, children who are daydreaming and space cadets and who've never been hyperactive or who are no longer hyperactive.  Many people are referred with complex interlocking difficulties who might not only have ADHD but also have associated autistic spectrum difficulties, emotional and behavioural problems, Tourette’s syndrome, specific learning difficulties including dyslexia, and possibly also coordination difficulties. We also frequently assess children who have been excluded or suspended from school, and also those  who have been involved in youth offending issues.  Comprehensive assessment is important to not only tease out these various difficulties but also to most importantly, ascertain whether or not an individual has ADHD as the basis of the difficulties and vulnerabilities.

The clinic regards good communication has with schools as essential, and always endeavours to work with schools to obtain good two-way communication in the child's best interests as in school-age children educational strategies and support as well as feedback from the school are essential to effective management.

The clinic is Healthcare Commission accredited with its most recent inspection receiving an excellent result.[ www.healthcarecommission.gov.uk]   These results also confirmed on patient surveys and clinical audit.  The clinic prides itself on its user-friendly approach and there is the ability to discuss whether or not the referral is appropriate with the practice manager prior to a definite decision being made.  Clinic staff have always made every effort to keep up with national and international research on ADHD related difficulties.