A new art installation in Liverpool will help raise awareness of ADHD and autism.
Over 200 umbrellas are set to be suspended in the city centre above the busy Church Alley as part of The Umbrella Project’s initiative.
The project was devised and curated by the Liverpool-based ADHD Foundation, who are celebrating their tenth anniversary as a charity.
Umbrellas were personally signed by children from St Olwald’s primary school in Old Swan and across Merseyside, many of whom have ADHD, autism and other neurodevelopment conditions.
Thanks to sponsorship from Equazen, Liverpool City Council and Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson, The Umbrella Project has been made possible.
Dr Tony Lloyd, chief executive of the ADHD Foundation, said: “The name for the project was actually chosen by the brilliant children who work with the foundation.
“ADHD and autism are ‘umbrella terms’ for a whole variety of neurodevelopment difficulties, and we want to highlight that fact and challenge the stigma of what can be ‘invisible’ disabilities.
“The Umbrella Project is about reminding adults – be it parents, teachers or potential employees – that young people with ADHD and other conditions possess many gifts, talents and skills to offer their communities.
“Their condition is not a disabler, but an enabler, a superpower!
“The foundation would like to thank Equazen, Liverpool City Council and the Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, whose support for the project has been amazing.”
Local businesses have been invited to get involved by sponsoring an umbrella for just £250, which will buy a whole programme of support for families.
Individuals can get involved too by sponsoring an umbrella for just £50, which would provide two therapy sessions for children affected.