Shire plc announces the launch of the Excellence in ADHD Patient Group Awards to recognise outstanding contributions by patient organisations to support people living with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Three unrestricted grants of €10,000 will be awarded for projects initiated in 2013 that have truly helped to support people affected by ADHD.

Brooke Clarke, Global Head of Responsibility and Brand at Shire and Shire representative on the judging panel says: “Patient groups carry out important work in raising awareness of ADHD and helping people and families who live with the disorder. The Excellence in ADHD Patient Group Awards is one way of recognising the groups that make such a significant difference to the lives of people with ADHD and those who care for them.”

Winners will be selected by an international judging panel including representatives from patient organisations, mental health advocates and experts in education: Audrey Craven, European Federation of Neurological Associations (EFNA); Gabriel Fernandez Rojas, Madrid School Council; Rebecca Müller, Global Alliance of Mental Illness Advocacy Networks (GAMIAN) Europe; Sarah Shenow, MQ: Transforming Mental Health; and Brooke Clarke, Shire. In cases where entries’ scores are similar, the judges (without the Shire representative) will take a final decision.

The judges are looking for creative and innovative projects that address unmet needs in ADHD and have a direct and positive impact on the lives of people affected by the disorder. Winning entries will have a clear strategy, defined objectives, measurable success markers and be based on evidence. Entrants can visit www.shire.com/PAGAwards to download an application pack including an application form and full guidance on the process. The closing date for entries is 8th August 2014, and winners will be announced on World Mental Health Day on 10th October 2014.

The awards are open to patient organisations who put the needs and interests of people affected by ADHD at the heart of their work. Entries may be submitted by organisations based outside of the United States and the United Kingdom that have not-for-profit/charitable status.

Developed, funded and organised by Shire, the awards are part of Shire’s patient-centric approach that provides support to ADHD patients and their caregivers.

ADHD is a common psychiatric disorder in children and adolescents and is recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO)3. It is thought to affect around 5 per cent of children and adolescents globally.