About

About me

I specialise in offering personalised, impartial support to parents, children, and young adults as they navigate their educational journeys. My focus is on delivering accurate, timely advice and information about Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), empowering individuals to confidently exercise their rights throughout the SEND process.

How I can help you
Special education needs - disability help word cloud.

My background

I have extensive experience supporting two autistic young people with co-occurring diagnoses, advocating for their educational rights and addressing their health and welfare needs. Through in-depth research and collaboration with local authorities (LAs), I have developed a deep understanding of how to meet the diverse needs of the neurodiverse community.

My passion for advocating for best practices in education drove me to earn a BA (Hons) First Class in Social Welfare Law, Policy, and Advice Practice, along with completing IPSEA Level 3 Advanced SEND Law. With over 20 years of lived experience, complemented by professional qualifications, I work as an independent EHCP Consultant and Mentor, guiding families through the complexities of SEND education with expertise and dedication.

BA (Hons) Social Welfare Law, Policy and Advice - Practice
First Class

IPSEA Level 3 Advanced SEND Law

Cert (HE) Social Sciences

My work

My purpose is to help parents and caregivers navigate the complex SEND system in schools and the legal processes of Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) by offering impartial advice and expert assistance. I specialise in drafting Grounds of Appeal for refusal to assess/issue, as well as appeals for Sections B, F, and/or I. I also provide ad hoc Tribunal support, preparing families for the SEND process and ensuring they are empowered to advocate effectively. This flexible support allows parents to engage as needed, keeping costs as low as possible.

Additionally, I offer assistance with reviewing or writing comprehensive applications for EHC needs assessments, amending draft EHC plans to ensure compliance with statutory guidance, and supporting families throughout the Annual Review process, including updates to EHCPs with current needs and provisions.

I work collaboratively with schools, local authorities, and agencies in education, health, and social care to help achieve positive outcomes for individuals. With in-depth knowledge of SEND legislation, including the Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Regulations 2014, SEND Code of Practice, and the Education Act 1996, I offer flexible SEND support wherever you are in your journey, including assistance with complaints when necessary.

For parents and caregivers, I also provide mentoring sessions, offering guidance and emotional support throughout the SEND journey. I understand the challenges families face, often feeling overlooked and left to navigate complex systems alone. Through my mentorship, you will find a compassionate ally who genuinely understands your experiences and provides the insight and empathy needed to feel supported and heard every step of the way.

As a parent advocate and carer

  • My role involves supporting two autistic individuals, focusing on their education, social engagement, and fostering independence. I prioritise their well-being , encouraging self-esteem and confidence.
  • Each individual I support is empowered through a unique, person-centered approach that is shaped by their personal goals and aspirations. I apply both proactive and reactive strategies to address challenges as they arise, working to prevent them from reoccurring
  • I collaborate closely with healthcare providers, educational institutions, local authorities, and charities to ensure the necessary support and funding is secured. With strong communication skills and a calm, professional demeanor, I adapt my approach to meet the unique needs of each situation. I value the diverse perspectives and expertise of those I work with, ensuring a respectful and effective partnership.

Complementing both caring and professional expertise

As caregivers and advocates, we develop expertise in our own rights. This knowledge complements my professional practices and enables me to fully comprehend the challenges faced by families without requiring extensive explanations. Additionally, I gain insight from the perspective of the child or young person.

My skills include staying up to date with legislative and regulatory changes, as well as monitoring the latest research and information on various conditions such as Autism, Pathological Demand Avoidance, Dyspraxia, Selective Mutism, Hypermobility, Sensory Processing Disorder, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dyspraxia and Tourette’s, Panic disorder, Mental health Difficulties, and Sensory Processing Differences.

Every family has a unique story, and I utilise all of my skills to support them in achieving their personal pathway to success, regardless of how many obstacles they may encounter. My goal is to equip families with the tools they need to succeed on their educational journey.