For parents starting out on the journey of difference, diagnosis and support is daunting, can feel incredibly isolating, and is invariably anxiety evoking. Negotiating the pathways of legislation and professional worlds can feel intimidating, frustrating and exhausting. Our children are at the heart of our lives. We are both their voice and their empowerment to have their voice heard.

Austerity has seen significant cuts across all service areas. This is particularly so for schools, health and social care. It is our families and their young people who are picking up the price of this. Often families are left feeling vulnerable and isolated. The mental health of parents, siblings and our young people spirals into fragility. The tide needs to change.

I have 25 years experience in education, having worked in mainstream, alternative provision and specialist advisory teacher roles. I have specialist postgraduate qualification in SEND and Inclusion and am currently a Doctoral Researcher in Education. I am mum to four children and we grow in our knowledge, experience and understanding of living autism on a daily basis.

Each family and young person is unique. They deserve and need to feel listened to and heard. I seek to listen, to hear and to do; an advocate who lives their journey with them. I am motivated by my personal and professional experience.to empower parents and strengthen families.Help me to help them. Strengthening people , strengthening lives.