The A Word

- Season 1

(2016)

Alison and Paul are in denial about the behaviour of their young son, Joe. When the extended family gather for Joe's fifth birthday it is suggested something is wrong - prompting grandfather Maurice to take action.

Following Joe's diagnosis Alison removes him from school to protect him, but Paul and Rebecca take a different view. Eddie is troubled by thoughts of Nicola's ex-lover and Maurice tries to avoid his singing teacher.

Alison receives a blast from her past when speech and language therapist Maggie arrives to assess Joe - forcing the family to confront some uncomfortable truths. Eddie is determined to put his own stamp on the brewery.

Alison allows Paul to persuade her to tell the school about Joe's diagnosis. With Maya helping care for Joe, Alison volunteers to help at the school and invites two of Joe's classmates to a sleepover leading to a breakthrough.

Alison is stunned when Maya faces deportation and Joe's behaviour reaches crisis point. Rebecca is coached on the best way to get revenge and Maurice is left regretting letting Louise go.

The family gather for the launch of Paul's gastropub and while Maurice gets to grips with the décor, Alison tries to reconcile with Paul. However, the family and local community must come together when Joe disappears.