The SEND Mum Club

Dora Garcia joins me on this episode to chat about her 9 year old son Matteo who has Autism and ADHD. We discuss Dora being in denial before the diagnosis and how she feels perceptions changed after it. We talk about the importance of taking pockets of time for yourself to recharge and making sure you prioritise what’s actually important rather than trying to do everything.Dora discusses how she travels all over the world with Matteo as a single mum and what she’s put in place to make sure it goes as well as possible.  You can follow Dora on Instagram @thetravelholicmum

Amelia Christie is my guest this week, talking about her 5 year old son Oliver who has congenital heart disease, cerebral palsy, global development delay and is tube fed. We talk about how Amelia coped with lengthy stays in hospital for Oliver’s surgeries, lessons she learned and things she’s now put in place to make hospital stays slightly easier. We talk about the importance of self-care while your child is ill but how hard that is to actually put into practice, and ways in which friends and family can support you. Amelia also talks about an amazing experience Oliver has just had being named the honorary 35th runner in the 2026 Grand National. You can find Amelia on Instagram @oliver_chdbaby

In this episode I talk to Christian Laing – co-founder of Stand Out Socks – about what life was like growing up with a sibling with Down syndrome. We discuss how that impacted Christian’s upbringing, how involved Ross was (and is) with Christian’s friends, and what Christian’s thoughts are now looking back as an adult. Christian, Ross & Christian’s partner Natalie founded Stand Out Socks (you may have seen them on Dragon’s Den) because Ross was struggling to find paid employment. Christian talks about how many people with additional needs end up working for free, or even paying to work and why it’s so important that changes. All the people that work at Stand Out Socks have Down syndrome and all of them are paid for every hour they work. I was absolutely shocked to learn how rare that is. You can shop the socks and find out more at www.standoutsocks.co.uk and follow them on Instagram @standoutsocksuk

I’m back after a little break over Easter and Vickie Tanner is my guest, talking about her 7 year old daughter Elsie who has Autism, sleep apnoea, epilepsy and is a wheelchair user. We discuss toilet training, milestones, Vickie’s own (very recent) diagnosis of autism, and the impact of SEN parenting on your mental health.Vickie shares her journey with Elsie on Instagram @elsiesworld__

This episode marks a year of The SEND Mum Club podcast. Thank you so much for listening!Liz Day is my guest this week, talking about her 4 year old son Henry who has the CASK gene mutation, an extremely rare genetic condition that affects boys much more severely than girls. We discuss the bleak outcome they were told to expect in terms of life expectancy and how Henry has already proved the doctors wrong. Liz talks about going back to work and how she manages that alongside Henry’s needs. We discuss how hard it is to give over some of Henry’s care to carers and the difficulty in finding peer support when his condition is so rare in boys.Liz mentions the Unique charity as a good resource if you’d like to learn more about Henry’s condition https://rarechromo.org/disorder-guides/You can find Liz on Instagram @medical_mumma_kickingcask

Founder and CEO of Down Syndrome UK Nicola Enoch joins be this week for a special episode in the run up to World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st. We discuss Nicola’s journey as mum to Tom who is now 21 as well as her work with Positive About Down Syndrome and why it’s so important. Nicola is extremely honest about her feelings when Tom was born in this chat, as well as how she feels about their life now. We discuss what led Nicola to set up PADS and the challenges families are facing who access their resources.TW: We discuss termination after diagnosis in this episode so listen with caution if you feel that may be triggering for you. You can find PADS here:https://downsyndromeuk.co.uk/

It’s a special episode this week because I’ve got a couple on! Clare & Carl Graham join me to talk about their daughter Odette who has Down syndrome and cerebral palsy. We talk about the reality of how long acceptance can take, receiving a second diagnosis, comparison on social media and the impact all of that can have on your mental health.Clare & Carl are both really open about how they’ve struggled mentally and what therapy looked like for both of them. Carl mentions men’s mental health charity Sean’s Place in this episode who do incredible work with men living in Liverpool and Sefton. You can find them here:https://seansplace.org.uk/You can find Carl on social media here:Instagram: @carlinstagrahamTikTok: @carlgsendad

My guest this week is a special one because she’s one of my besties! Ani and I have been friends for nearly 22 years and she was one of my bridesmaids when she was pregnant with her daughter Melyn. After Melyn was born Ani and her partner found out she was deaf. In this episode we talk about the importance of allowing yourself to sit in the grief of a diagnosis, self preservation when researching a diagnosis, and the decision to go ahead with surgery for cochlear implants and what that now means for Melyn.Ani is a (fabulous) musician and she also discusses how she’s making her music and performances more inclusive for the deaf community. You can find out all about Ani’s music - and buy some merch – here:https://aniglass.bandcamp.com/musicInstagram: @ani_glass

Francesca Morgan joins me on this episode to talk about her 3 year old daughter Shania who has Down syndrome. We discuss her traumatic birth experience, followed by receiving Shania’s diagnosis in the wrong way, and feeling let down by multiple people involved in their care over the first couple of weeks.After unsuccessfully looking for SEN baby groups Francesca decided to set up her own and we talk about what that’s gone on to become and how important it is to have that peer support from people who get itTags: additional needs, SEN parent, SEN support group

It’s another expert episode this week and I’m joined by Claire from The SEN Expert to answer your questions on all things SEN. We talk about how to get an EHCP if your child isn’t in school or nursery yet, appealing a DLA decision, EBSA (emotional based school avoidance), the challenges of trying to work and care for a child with complex needs and much more. Claire talks about the legal test in the SEND code of practice in the episode:Key Aspects of the Legal Test Definition: A child has SEN if they have a significantly greater difficulty in learning than others of the same age, or a disability preventing them from using standard educational facilities. Assessment Criteria: The local authority must consider evidence of academic attainment, the nature/extent of SEN, actions already taken by the school, and the child's health/developmental needs. "May Need" Threshold: The test is whether special provision may be necessary, not whether it is definitively required immediately. Evidence Basis: It is not necessary to have a formal diagnosis for an EHC assessment to be agreed.  You can find The SEN Expert here:Instagram: @senexpertTikTok: @thesenexpertwww.thesenexpert.co.uk

My guest this week is Paul Triggs, talking about his 8 year old daughter Violet who has autism. We talk about their journey to diagnosis, Violet’s sensory needs, and the positive affect her autism has on her siblings. Paul also talks about the footwear and fashion brand he’s set up – Through Different Eyes – through which he hopes to offer paid employment to people with additional needs. You can find Through Different Eyes in store in Transalpino in Liverpool or online here:https://www.throughdifferenteyes.co.uk/www.instagram.com/through_different_eyes_/ Tags: sensory processing disorder, EHCP, SEN, parenting podcast

Sam Prince is my guest this week talking about her daughter Immy who’s 15 and has autism. We chat about Immy’s difficult road to diagnosis and the life changing effect it had on her. Sam also discusses Immy’s ARFID, how it presents, the way in which it’s changed over the years and how it affects the whole family. We also talk about the autistic Barbie and why she’s dividing opinion. You can find Sam on Instagram, TikTok & Facebook @lifewithmothergoose Tags: ASD, SEN parenting, SEND, additional needs, EHCP

Happy new year! Steph Logan is my first guest of 2026 talking about her 6 year old daughter Lola who has autism. We talk about Lola’s sensory needs and how that means much more thought has to go into planning days out, the sleep struggle, and myself & Steph share positive interactions we’ve had with people while out with our children.Steph works in SEN supporting young adults and she has some brilliant insight into what post 16 support looks like. You can find Steph on Instagram @incredible_sen_adventures Tags: additional needs, parenting podcast, SEND parent

It’s Christmas so I thought I’d gift you a montage of advice my guests have shared over the past few months. I hope you have a lovely Christmas and New Year (whatever that looks like for you) and I’ll be back in January with some more brilliant guests for you. Tags: parenting podcast, additional needs, SEN, SEND, autism, ADHD, Down syndrome

In this week’s episode I’m joined by Lucy Dossor to talk about her son Daniel who’s 20 and has Down syndrome. We discuss how she coped with Dan having to have heart surgery as a baby and the aftermath of that, Daniel’s dynamic with his siblings growing up and what his friendships have looked like. We also talk about the transition from child to young adult and the challenges that brings, including the lack of information for navigating post school life, and Lucy’s plans for where Dan will live.

Kate Anderson is my guest this week, talking about her daughter Florence who has Aicardi Syndrome. Kate talks about exactly what that means and what a typical day looks like caring for a medically complex child. We talk about the toll of frequent, long hospital stays due to repeated chest infections and the importance of accepting help from people. Kate is also really honest about her desire to have another child to experience the typical version of motherhood.Kate is keen to raise awareness of North East based charities that have helped her family. You can find them all here and what Kate has used them for:https://northeastsightmattersltd.co.uk/ for day tripshttps://www.stoswaldsuk.org/ for respitehttps://thecharlieandcarterfoundation.co.uk/ for financial supporthttps://www.thesunshinefund.org/ for specialist equipmenthttps://www.rainbowtrust.org.uk/about/where-we-support/north-east-team for respitehttps://www.sickchildrenstrust.org/ for accommodation while Florence was is in hospitalhttps://macs.org.uk/ for emotional support and meet upshttps://www.sense.org.uk/ for monthly visits and tripshttps://www.elifarfoundation.org.uk/ for a specialised car seathttps://www.thedaisygarland.org.uk/ for sats monitor and epilepsy supporthttps://www.rnib.org.uk/ for support for Kate & George from a family worker

In this episode I’m joined by SJ Philips to talk about her children Oliver and Emelia who both have autism that presents in very different ways. SJ talks about her extremely traumatic birth with Ollie, taking her local authority to court to get him a school place and exactly what that looked like, all while being extremely unwell herself. We discuss the impact that had on her relationship and how she co-parents effectively with her ex partner. SJ also talks about what she’s putting in place for Ollie and other SEND families for the future. You can find SJ on Instagram @spoonsandspectrumsTags: Global development delay, ADHD, EHCP

In this episode I’m joined by Kelly Hughes to chat about her daughter, 8 year old Gracie who has Down syndrome, autism, ADHD and PDA. We talk about the battle to find the right school for Gracie and the importance of having the right professionals involved in her care. We also discuss school refusal and Kelly opens up about a traumatic conversation she had with a doctor soon after Gracie’s birth. Kelly has set up the Merseyside SEND Support Network to help other parents with all of the challenges involved in raising a chid with additional needs and you can find out more about it here:https://www.merseyside-send-support-network.co.uk/You can find them on Instagram here:@merseysidesendsupportnetwork

I’m chatting to a SEND Dad this week, my friend and radio colleague Adam Weighell. Adam talks about the life changing impact of his son Toby being born at 26 weeks. We discuss life in the NICU, the moment he and his wife Gemma finally got to take Toby home after 142 days in hospital, and the fact they were aware Toby’s chance of being neurodiverse would be slightly higher due to how early he was born and some medical complications that followed. Adam talks about the differences in parenting a neurodiverse child alongside a neurotypical one and the need for connection with other parents who are in a similar situation. Adam has written a book about Toby’s start to life called Dear Toby – which he describes as a love letter to his son – designed to help other parents navigate the NICU and life with a premature baby. You can order the book here:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dear-Toby-Diary-Preemie-Parent/dp/1036916359 Tags: world prematurity day, autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder

This is the first of a slightly different type of episode (which will be occasionally dropped in amongst the usual ones) where I speak to experts in different fields that you may find helpful. This episode is all about therapy. I’m joined by Naomi Bateren who is a psychotherapist to talk though the different types of therapy and how to access them – both through the NHS and privately - how to pick which type of therapy will work best for you, and how to get the most out of your sessions. There is also a listener Q&A made up of questions sent in through Instagram, and Naomi gives her advice for anyone struggling with any aspect of SEND parenting.Naomi asked to clarify some of the differences between different professions here in the show notes…Clinical psychologists are trained to doctoral level and use more therapy models. They tend to work with more complexity (multiple goals, drawing more links, slower pace). Counselling is a space to be heard and validated and is less directive.CBT therapy is a specific training and is used for a faster paced single direction/focus.Psychotherapy is similar to clinical psychology. There can be different levels of training, many to masters level.The websites Naomi mentions to find a therapist are here:https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/counsellinghttps://www.bacp.co.uk/ You can find Naomi on Instagram @naomibaterentherapy

This week Carys Anderson is my guest, talking about her nearly 6 year old daughter Seleh who has an extremely rare genetic condition called Tessadori Bicknell Van Haaften syndrome. We discuss the difficulty of finding holidays that can cater for both physical disabilities and complex sensory needs, the difficulties of waiting so long for a diagnosis and how isolating that was, the benefits of therapy as a parent and Carys has some brilliant advice about allowing time for yourself time as well as for your child. The charities Carys found helpful are:SWAN https://geneticalliance.org.uk/support-and-information/swan-uk-syndromes-without-a-name/Rare Disease UK https://geneticalliance.org.uk/campaigns-and-research/rare-disease-uk/ Tags: SEN parenting, SEND, additional needs

In this episode I’m joined by Zynab Al Bahrani to chat about her 2 boys Yaseen and Saleem who both have autism. We talk about how it feels getting a diagnosis with your second child, the many things that can trigger you as a parent, how to cope with regression, and the importance of understanding sensory processing. You can find Zynab on Instagram @chapter.thirty.five and @happychattersdeveloplanguage and online at www.chapterthirtyfive.com

Charlie Pettit joins me for this episode to talk about her daughter Easter who has Down syndrome and well as a brain condition. We discuss comparison with typical children, letting go of control and how hard that can be, and the importance of being able to connect with people in similar situations. We also talk about the abortion laws concerning Down syndrome (and other conditions) meaning you can legally terminate your pregnancy right up until the end and why it’s so important for that to change. You can find Charlie on Instagram @a_little_extra_with_easter

This week I’m joined by certified parent coach Kirsty Bailey to discuss her journey of parenting her son Tommy who has autism. Kirsty specialises in neurodiversity and we take a deep dive into communication, in particular Gestalt language processing. Kirsty also gives her take on the controversial comments made by Donald Trump regarding autism and paracetamol. You can find Kirsty on TikTok & Instagram @mammaandtommyTags: speech and language, sensory integration, global development delay

Laura Wallace joins me for this episode to chat about her son Ted who has cerebral palsy. We discuss the various ways that affects Ted and the day to day changes she has to make to accommodate his needs. We talk about the worry of him starting school and how he’ll cope, the guilt she felt when receiving Ted’s diagnosis and her struggles to get health professionals to listen to her in the beginning.The charities Laura talks about in this episode are:https://leosneonatal.org/https://contact.org.uk/Tags: SEN parenting, parenting podcast

We’re back after our summer break and in this episode sisters Nikki & Louise talk about their experiences as mums of children with ADHD & Autism as well as their professional roles as rebound therapists. We discuss how working in SEND can help when parenting a child with additional needs but also how that parenting journey helps them in their job supporting other families. We also speak about the difficulty in getting a diagnosis for an older child who is approaching adulthood and exactly what rebound therapy is and the multiple benefits it can have for children with a wide range of additional needs. You can find Nikki & Louise on socials @rebounderstherapycentre and @louisereboundtherapy and Nikki’s contact email is [email protected] Tags: SEN parenting, parenting podcast, EHCP, DLA, SEN school

It’s the summer holidays so the podcast (and me) will be going on a break. I’m going to have more fabulous guests for you from the beginning of September but in the meantime I’m going to leave you with a montage of the advice from all of my amazing guests so far!Tags: parenting podcast, additional needs, SEN parenting, SEND

This week I’m chatting to Becky Blount about her son Bobby's health journey, including his diagnosis of pectus excavatum and ADHD. Becky shares her experiences with Bobby's surgery, recovery, and the significant changes in his quality of life post-operation. We talk about funding cuts for the pectus excavatum surgery and how Becky has campaigned to change the decision to not offer the operation to help other families in the future You can find the charity Becky talks about in this episode here:www.pectusmatters.co.uk Tags: pectus excavatum, NHS cuts, surgery, ADHD, SEN SEND

Lauren James joins me to talk about her gorgeous 3 year old daughter Dottie. This is an emotional one for me because my Leo is only slightly younger than Dottie and a lot of Lauren’s initial feelings about a diagnosis of Down Syndrome mirror my own. We discuss acceptance, how to talk to siblings about a diagnosis – Dottie is one of 6, and how Lauren is dealing with developmental regression, likely caused by autism. You can find Lauren on Instagram here @keepingupwithdotzThe books Lauren mentions about how to talk to children about additional needs are here:https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=the+abilities+in+me+books&adgrpid=159542794286&gad_source=1&hvadid=696275714049&hvdev=c&hvexpln=69&hvlocphy=1007409&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=62791021235228350--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=62791021235228350&hvtargid=kwd-1105399785062&hydadcr=15245_2304951&mcid=c83807181e2e3906a0d1ff777d8041a6&tag=googhydr-21&ref=pd_sl_9r4jdif5dn_e_p69 Tags: Down syndrome, autism, development regression, SEN SEND, parenting

This week I’m joined by Jessie Townz to talk about her son Max who has Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and high functioning autism. We discuss the challenges of navigating the school system and how hard it was to find Max a suitable setting where they understood his needs. We discuss the importance of advocacy, the impact of PDA on their family life, and why there is a need for greater awareness and understanding of PDA.  You can find Jessie on Instagram @jessietownz Tags: PDA, autism, neurodiversity, sen, send

My guest this week is Charlotte House, talking about her son Barnaby who has a rare form of epilepsy. Barnaby can have up to 70 seizures a day and we discuss how Charlotte manages that and what measures have had to be put in place to keep him safe. We talk about the on-going wait to find out what’s causing Barnaby’s seizures, how Charlotte finds researching everything helpful and she gives some great advice on how to keep track of information and appointments. We also discuss the mental toll of waiting for a big upcoming surgery and how she finds time for moments of self-care throughout the week. Tags: epilepsy, infantile spasms, brain surgery, SEN parenting

In this episode I speak to my first international guest, all the way from Australia! Steph Papas joins me to chat about her 2 year old son Archie who has the extremely rare genetic condition TARP syndrome. We discuss the emotional resilience needed to deal with a potentially life limiting diagnosis, the decision to delay telling more than a handful of people, and how difficult it is to find peer support with such a rare condition.Steph has such a beautiful outlook on how Archie’s diagnosis has changed her as a person, and the way in which it has made her live in the present instead of always planning ahead. Tags: TARP syndrome, rare genetic condition, SEN parenting, SEND parenting

In this week’s episode I’m joined by Kelly Sadler to talk about her 10 year old son Kobi who was born with an upper limb difference – picked up at her 20 week scan. We discuss the need for medical professionals to be trained properly to deliver unexpected news and how she felt horribly anxious for the remainder of her pregnancy after receiving the diagnosisKelly talks about how Kobi feels about his limb difference and what it holds him back from doing, but more importantly what he’s thriving at. We discuss representation in the media and how crucial that is, and Kobi’s breakthrough acting role in a huge Netflix hit show! Kelly mentions a couple of charities in this episode and you can find them below:www.reach.org.ukwww.limbbofoundation.co.uk You can find the page Kelly runs for Kobi on Instagram here:www.instagram.com/k_o_b_i___s__/?hl=en Tags: limb difference, SEND, parenting

In this (slightly chaotic) episode, I speak to my husband Ben to get his version of our story with our son Leo who has Down syndrome. Ben shares his initial feelings when we got Leo's diagnosis and the ongoing journey of acceptance since. We talk about letting family and friends in and accepting support, and the important role therapy has played in his journey. We also speak about our differing opinions on the benefits of peer support from within the SEND community and why that might be harder for dads to seek out. This episode is very kindly supported by Positive About Down Syndrome. You can access all kinds of support and information on their website here:www.positiveaboutdownsyndrome.co.uk Tags: SEN, SEN parenting, additional needs, Down syndrome

In this episode I'm joined by Megan Gillett to chat about her daughter Nellie, who has the terminal genetic condition Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD). Although this is obviously an emotional chat I was blown away by Megan's positive attitude to life despite Nellie's diagnosis. We speak about the grief of finding out Nellie's condition is terminal, the decision to have another baby, and the logistics of genetic testing including the options open to you if you find yourself in that position. Megan speaks about the emotional journey of parenting a child with a degenerative disease, and the importance of cherishing memories and how they're going about that as a family.You can find Megan on Instagram @megan_mumma_sunshineThe Just Giving link we talk about in the episode to support Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice is here:www.justgiving.com/page/rory-gillett-london-marathonTags: MLD, SEND, parenting

In this episode I'm joined by Abbie Bates talking about her daughter Harriet, who is nearly four years old and diagnosed with autism, global development delay, sensory processing disorder, and PICA. We talk about Harriet's journey to diagnosis, the differences between global development delay and learning disabilities, and the challenges of communication for non-verbal children. Abbie shares her experiences with an AAC device the importance of family support and understanding. You can find Abbie on socials @happyhandsharriet_asd

In this episode I’m joined by Shona Larrigan, talking about her 8 month old baby Harry, who has Prader-Willi syndrome. We discuss the emotional impact of receiving a diagnosis, the importance of therapy and support, and the need to live in the present. Shona shares her experiences with public perception and the conversations surrounding Harry's condition, and her hope for the future with potential advances in medication. We also talk about  trying to get the balance right between personal well-being and the desire to raise awareness, especially in the early days of your journey.This episode is released in Prader-Willi Awareness Month and if you need support with a diagnosis here are some helpful links including the one Shona mentions: Prader-Willi Association Ireland https://pwsai.ie/Prader-Willi Association UK https://www.pwsa.co.uk/ Tags: Prader-Willi syndrome, new diagnosis, additional needs, new parent

This week’s guest is Charlotte Hunt who you might know from Instagram/TikTok as @twins_tides_and_autism_vibes. We talk about life with her sons Jude & Tommy who both have severe autism and how things have changed since Jude was born 17 years ago. Charlotte’s really honest about the breakdown of her marriage and how it felt navigating dating again as a SEND mum. We discuss introducing the boys to a new partner, going on to have (neurotypical) twin girls and how impactful their brothers’ autism has been on their family. We also talk about navigating friendships after having children with additional needs, and what you can do if you’re having struggles in that area.Tags: neurodiversity, autism, special needs, dating, divorce

In this episode, I’m joined by Ebony Gilbert talking about her journey as mum to George, who is blind, has autism and also brain damage from a stroke at birth. We talk about the struggle of true acceptance and what you have to let go of to get there, the joy of finding your own path that works for you and your family, and the challenges of communication without being able to use visual aids. Ebony also shares some great tools to help regulate yourself when things get tough, and the life-changing impact of dietary changes on George’s autism.Tags: blindness, autism, stroke, brain damage, communication, special needs, diet, neurodiversity

Kim Lucock is my guest this week, sharing the journey of her daughter Jessica, who has faced chronic bowel problems since birth. We talk about Jessica having stoma surgery and the impact it’s had on her life, and the complexities of navigating the education system with a child who has additional health needs. Kim talks about Jessica’s medical anxiety, the realities of living with a chronic condition, and small changes that can be made to public disabled toilets that can make a huge difference to people living with stomas. Kim and Jessica are great advocates for stoma awareness and you can find them on socials here:Facebook – Jessica’s Stoma JourneyInstagram - @jessicasstomajourneyX - @journeystoma Tags: bowel problems, stoma, parenting, chronic constipation, autisam, ADHD, special needs, stoma care, body image, medical anxiety

In this episode Claire shares her emotional journey navigating the complexities of her son Jake's cardiac issues, including a heart transplant, and the effects that had on her, and her daughter Daisy. She talks about how she coped with nearly losing Jake multiple times, and how a diagnosis of autism brought a whole new set of challenges.Claire also discusses her charitable work with Team 1C, which raises funds for children in need of heart surgeries, and supports families with children in critical care. You can find them on Instagram @weareteam1c and at www.team1c.orgSome of what Claire has been through is quite traumatic so please bear this in mind when listening, particularly if you have a child with cardiac issues.The 2 North West based organisations Claire mentions that helped her and Jake are:Rebounders - @rebounderstherapycentre on InstagramThe Neurodiverse Family Support Network (formerly Autism in Motion)www.neurodiversefamilysupport.org.ukTags: genetic cardiac condition, heart transplant, autism, SEND, SEN, parenting

Amy Blackburn is my first guest talking about Down syndrome so this is a special one for me. In this episode Amy shares her journey of parenting her 6 year old son Remy. She discusses the emotional impact of receiving the diagnosis, the challenges of navigating day to day life, and what happened when her older children were told about Remy’s diagnosis by someone else without her consent. Our conversation delves into the realities of managing safety, education, and Amy’s worries for Remy as he gets older. We talk about Amy’s experiences with social media, good and bad, and why it’s so important to raise awareness. Tags: Down syndrome, parenting, danger awareness, DLA, SEND

This week I’m joined by Jemma and Lisa, aka the SEND Mummies, sharing their experiences as parents of children with additional needs while running a business helping other families. They talk about their personal journeys, the challenges they face, and the importance of community support. We discuss the difficulties of navigating the SEND landscape, including the difficulties with DLA and EHCP processes, and the emotional weight of advocating for their children. Jemma & Lisa talk about their coping mechanisms for overwhelming days, the grief that can accompany the journey, and how far into the future each of them are happy to think.  You can find The SEND Mummies on Instagram & TikTok @SENDMummies or online at www.sendmummies.co.uk Tags: autism, DLA, EHCP, neurodiversity, awareness, disability benefits, pica, echolalia, global development delay

In this episode I’m joined by Jodie Morgan, who shares her journey as a mother of two boys, Layton and Brooklyn, both with very different diagnoses. Layton has cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition that affects his lungs and pancreas, while Brooklyn has autism. Jodie discusses the emotional impact of their diagnoses, the routines they manage, and clever ways they’ve found to keep Layton motivated with his daily physio. Jodie talks about her decision to have another child, considering the implications of CF, and how she approaches parenting with a positive attitude to understanding and supporting her children's unique needs. Tags: Cystic Fibrosis, CF, Autism, Parenting, Fitness, Health Management, Cystic Fibrosis, Stroke

In this episode Sam Young shares her journey as a mother to 5 year old Nina who has autism. Sam discusses the challenges and joys of parenting a child on the spectrum, the importance of community support, and the role of social media in connecting with other parents. She reflects on the diagnosis process, the need for better resources, and the emotional complexities of planning for the future. Sam emphasizes the significance of advocacy and education, both for her daughter and for raising awareness in society.You can find Sam on Instagram @samninawolf Tags: autism, parenting, special needs, diagnosis, advocacy, speech & language therapy

In this episode, Polly shares her journey parenting 5 year old twins Fox & Lili Rose who have a genetic condition so rare that no one else in the world has it. We talk about their long stay in the NICU, finding support from others on a similar journey and how important that is, and the resilience her situation has given her.We discuss learning to stay in the present and the beauty of finding joy in small moments. Polly is really open and honest in this emotional chat, and mentions the book Unique by Melanie Dimmitt and the charity Unique that both really helped her. Links for both are here:www.rarechromo.orghttps://amzn.eu/d/iJvByTWTags: motherhood, NICU, twins, IVF, parenting, emotional journey, genetic condition, special needs, ableism

Welcome to The SEND Mum Club podcast! In this first episode I talk about my journey after finding out my son Leo has Down syndrome. I reflect on the feelings I had waiting for the test results to come back, the moment we received his diagnosis and the path I’ve been on since. I’m very honest about the wide ranging emotions I had (and still have sometimes) as I want this podcast to be a safe space for my future guests to open up about all aspects of raising a child with additional needs while also celebrating the absolute joy our children bring us, and the whole new world they’ve opened our eyes to. This episode is supported by Positive About Down Syndrome, you can find out more about this amazing charity here www.downsyndromeuk.co.ukTags: down syndrome, additional needs, diagnosis, trisomy 21, extra chromosome

The SEND Mum Club launches on 21st March. Make sure you're following so the episodes automatically download