Together for SEND | Family and Practitioner Support

Bristol Parent Carers is a friendly group of volunteer parent carers, caring for children and young people (0-25 years) with Special Educational Needs, and Disabilities (SEND) who live in Bristol. Our expanding group comes from all different backgrounds and communities in Bristol.We offer support and signposting for families across Bristol to that they receive the right support, at the right time, and in the right way. We also work together with local SEND services across Health, Education and Social Care, in order to shape the experiences that services provide for all families in Bristol. It's really important to share your views with us so that we can use your feedback to ensure local services deliver the kind of support local families expect.If you have any queries or accessibility need to attend this event or questions about our organisation please email: info@bristolparentcarers.org.uk. When you book an event, you will be added to our database and your booking is confirmation that you agree to the use of your data in this way. You can unsubscribe from the mailing list at any time by following the unsubscribe link in the email you receive. See our privacy policyhere.F﻿or more events to support children with Autism or ADHD clickhere.

Bristol Parent Carers

Please scroll down to see the full agenda for the day. There are over 30 different session available. Please only book one session per hour.

BAWA Healthcare & Leisure

01. Practitioner Led Sessions

Online and in-person information sessions that are free for families to attend. No diagnosis is needed.

Please only book one session per hour. Every session with a presentation will be shared after the event. Thank you. 🇸🇴 Caawinaad, taageero ama su'aalo ku saabsan dhacdadan, fadlan wac 07306 650222 ama iimayl u dir info@bristolparentcarers.org.uk waxaanu kaga jawaabi doonaa 2 maalmood oo shaqo gudahood. Waxaad sidoo kale akhrin kartaa hagaha.<a href="https:// www.bit.ly/BPC2024somali" title="https:// www.bit.ly/BPC2024somali" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer"> www.bit.ly/BPC2024somali</a>🇵🇱 Aby uzyskać pomoc, wsparcie lub pytania dotyczące tego wydarzenia, zadzwoń pod numer 07306 650222 lub wyślij e-mail na adres info@bristolparentcarers.org.uk, a my odpowiemy w ciągu 2 dni roboczych. Możesz także przeczytać poradnik. <a href="https://www.bit.ly/BPC2024Polish" title="https://www.bit.ly/BPC2024Polish" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">www.bit.ly/BPC2024Polish</a> -----------🇬🇧Come along to our free event, Together for SEND | Family and Practioner Support. A whole day dedicated to offering solutions and connections for those navigating the world of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Bristol.With an extensive lineup of 30 informative sessions covering all areas of SEND, this event is an opportunity to share knowledge and a platform to broaden understanding and ensure all families and practitioners are aware of the diverse range of support available within our local community.Embark on a journey of discovery and collaboration at Together for SEND, where every session is designed to empower, educate, and foster a sense of community.Please see our FAQ here: <a href="https://bristolparentcarersforum.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/EXsx57kWrh1Bn1pKDjEXO4kBIbULlnJHu-NaKV7qTRQixA?e=ssFWKy" title="https://bristolparentcarersforum.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/EXsx57kWrh1Bn1pKDjEXO4kBIbULlnJHu-NaKV7qTRQixA?e=ssFWKy" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">in English</a> #SENDTogether #BristolCommunity #SupportInSEND👀👀 For event add-ons like a chat with a speech therapist or a few hours in the creche, please scroll to the bottom of the event tickets. There is also the option to make a donation. 🏫 School staff. Your organisation administrator/financer can book &amp; pay for multiple tickets to this event (using the £25 SENDCo ticket), but to secure spots at clinics, talks and other sessions, individual SENDCos must then return to this page and book onto their chosen sessions (using the free ticket option). This is to ensure we have individual access needs and dietary info and also to ensure we capture your views. There is a FAQ Pack for schools <a href="https://bristolparentcarersforum.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/ETQ0bY2IV79Mjni7iFbeNkgB8rhwjr73mQgsRDSzRftWFw?e=uA40Lr" title="https://bristolparentcarersforum.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/ETQ0bY2IV79Mjni7iFbeNkgB8rhwjr73mQgsRDSzRftWFw?e=uA40Lr" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">here.</a> 💬 We can assist families who need support to read or understand English. You can tell us about the support you need at checkout and we will do our best to help you. 🚏🚍 We can reimburse the costs of bus tickets to this event for families on a low income. There is the option to select this at checkout. If you need additional support getting to this event please call, text or email us at 07306 650222 or sendevent2024@bristolparentcarers.org.uk and we will do our best to help you.

Key Note Speaker

Ella was diagnosed with autism and ADHD as an adult. Their talk will help deliver an understanding of the combined presentation of autism and ADHD.

Autism & ADHD

 The talk will look at the work that Bridge in Schools does in special education settings, providing specialist therapeutic input to support children and young people in SEND settings and supporting staff and families.

Supporting Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing in SEND

Corrina has 4 autistic children and has worked as a Family Services Manager for over 15 years. The session will offer you unique tools to support children and young people in managing demands (sometimes known as demand avoidance) both at home and within school.

Supporting children and young people to manage demands

Join NeonDaisy’s autistic mentors who will talk about their experiences holding space for neurodivergent girls and gender non-conforming young people, and will share how vital it is to nurture autistic-only spaces. They’ll also reflect on what they’ve learned about helping young people feel validated, and believed – and that they’re enough as they are.

Experiences of neurodivergent young people

Hannah Woodhouse, Bristol City Council's newly appointed Executive Director of Children & Education, and Councillor Asher Craig, Deputy Mayor overseeing Children's Services, Education, and Equalities, will share insights on Bristol's commitment to building an inclusive system.

Hannah Woodhouse and Cllr Asher Craig

Join Kevin, an Associate Partner at Geldards LLP, specialising in Education Law, for a comprehensive overview of Education, Health, and Care Plans. From the initial graduated approach to needs assessments and the final plan, Kevin has the expertise to guide you through it all.

A whistle-stop tour of Education, Health and Care Plans

Info Session

Come along to this session with BIBIC to develop a deeper knowledge about sensory processing along with strategies to support children and young people, there will be a 15-minute Q&A session.

Understanding sensory processing

Developmental language delay (sometimes known as developmental language delay or DLD) affects around 2 children in every classroom. This information session will raise awareness of the need and talk about support strategies, there will be a 15-minute Q&A session. 

What is developmental language delay?

This session will provide an overview of dyscalculia (a specific and persistent difficulty in understanding numbers) which affects around 6% of the population. The session will deliver practical tips for both families and practitioners 

What is dyscalculia?

Discover two captivating initiatives by Murmuration Community Therapy. An innovative film co-created with children, educating on neurodiversity and a reading from a new book by a parent carer, offering valuable insights into managing and supporting children with complex needs.

Preview of: two new tools to support inclusion 

Join Loren Snow for an introduction session to eating difficulties. Suitable for both families and practitioners, Loren covers a variety of issues connected to this topic.

Eating difficuties

Embark on an exciting journey as Educational Psychologist Freia unveils the Bristol Specific Learning Needs guidance at our exclusive launch event.

Launch of Bristol Specific Learning Needs guidance 

Clinic & Workshops

Join Sirona Care and Health for a 20-minute appointment to discuss any speech or occupational therapy needs. 

Speech and Occupational therapy clinic

Join Gill from Extraordinary Links for invaluable help and support in completing your Disability Living Allowance (DLA) form. Gill provides peer support, along with firsthand tips from a parent carer's perspective to simplify the process of tackling these sometimes lengthy forms.

 Disability Living Allowance

Parents and practitioners will develop the skills and confidence to play, interact and develop support strategies for young children.

Early play for children who are deafblind or have multi-sensory impairment

Join Bristol's Educational Psychology service for a session on understanding the teenage brain

Understanding the teenage brain

Every parent worries about what will happen to their children after they’re gone. When your child is vulnerable due to disability or special needs, that worry only gets bigger. Join Rhiannon from PlanIt Future for a jargon-free session on all things finances.

Financial Planning for families with Special Educational Needs 

Join Corrina for a comprehensive session that delves into the unique aspects of Autism in girls, offering valuable insights and practical information for a better understanding of their needs and experiences.

Autism & Girls

Join Mary Stanley-Duke for a session on "Mediating Learning for All." By the end of this session, you will gain insights into how the setup of learning environments influences the learning process. Discover three key strategies to promote effective learning interactions when working with learners.

Mediating learning for all

Join Catrina Lowri for an information session on what is ADHD. This session includes a 15-minute Q&A and hints and tips for both families and practitioners.

What is ADHD?

New to being a SENDCo in Bristol? Gain essential insights and practical knowledge in this informative session to confidently navigate your new role.

Top Tips for NEW SENDCOs

Join Bristol's Educational Psychology Service to gain insights into developing skills for adulthood and understanding what employers seek when employees face challenges like literacy difficulties.

The Pathway to independent adulthood 

Join this fantastic event with Bristol City Council's School Improvement Officer and SEND and You to gain insights into the available SEND provision for mainstream school-age pupils. Discover how to navigate and understand the offerings in different settings.

The graduated approach to SEND and Bristol's ordinarily available provisions

Learn Makaton with Ali Makaton Tutor in this interactive workshop and discover the power of supporting communication through the use of speech, signs & symbols

Introduction to Makaton

Building stronger relationships when things are stressful, A workshop aimed at SEND practitioners and parents/carers with practical resources.  Participants of this session will learn how to manage stress effectively and communicate better.

Building strong relationships when things are stressful 

Join Educational Psychologist Aoife McNally for an information session on understanding what current research can tell us about the impact of contact with nature on learning and well-being. 

This session will also include an opportunity to co-construct ideas as to how we could grow young people's connection to nature. 

Nature connectedness and how this impacts on learning and wellbeing

This session will provide an overview of how to use visual communication to support autistic children (no diagnois required). It will provide strategies, tips and ideas for how you can use visual supports to help your child learn, self-regulate and reduce anxiety.

This session will be useful for all autistic children, not just those who have difficulty communicating verbally.

Visual Communication Basics

Join us for a comprehensive session on social care support, encompassing everything from direct payments to short breaks. It's your one-stop-shop for all the information you need.

Support available from Social Care

Join Jade from Bristol Autism Support for invaluable help and support in completing your Disability Living Allowance (DLA) form. Jade provides peer support, along with firsthand tips from a parent carer's perspective to simplify the process of tackling these sometimes lengthy forms.

Disability Living Allowance

Join Sirona Care and Health to discover the available local support for speech, language, and communication needs in Bristol.

Language and communication support

This session will build greater awareness of why attending a local sports club can be so impactful. The session will be evidenced by real-life case studies and participants will develop an understanding of what support is available locally to participate. 

The benefits of community sport for disabled children and young people

Exhibitors

We work with local SEND services to ensure that the support and services they offer suit the needs of families. 

The Integrated Care Board is the new organisation responsible for the day-to-day running of the NHS. The NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICB takes account of population needs, arranges for the provision of services and manages the NHS budget.

Bristol, North Somerset, South Glos Integrated Care Board

Sirona Care & Health deliver children's therapy and SEND services across the City. Come along to talk to the speech and language team, the occupational therapy team, the autism team, the paediatricians' team and much more!

Sirona Care & Health

Bristol City Council

Bristol Autism Support (BAS) is a registered charity providing information, support and training for parents and carers of autistic children in BS postcodes. We believe the need for our support is self-defining. Parents and carers do not need a diagnosis for their child in order to access our services. Bristol Autism Support is also the South West Regional Hub for the Autism Central Peer Education Programme.

Bristol Autism Support

Access Sport supports community sports clubs across Bristol to offer activities to disabled children and young people. They also coordinate Ignite Bristol which brings together all the different disability-inclusive sport and physical activity opportunities in one place to make it easier for you to find something suitable to your child's needs and interests. This is done through a website, directory, facebook page, newsletter and bi-annual multi-sport festivals. 

Access Sport

ACT4SEND is led by Sue Willis and provides advice and support for schools to improve the provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Sue has a vast wealth of experience in the field of inclusion.  She has worked as an Advisory Teacher since 2013. Previously she taught in schools for 14 years and was a Special Needs Co-ordinator for 8 years.

ACT4SEND

With a vast knowledge of using and applying the Makaton Language Programme for people with communication difficulties within a variety of settings for over 25 years, I bring practical ideas for implementing the programme and offer services to suit everyone's budget. Alongside being a Makaton Tutor my previous roles have included a SEND hub lead, a Speech and Language Assistant & a Family Support Worker.

Ali Makaton Tutor and support services

Autism Central is a peer education programme, commissioned by NHS England. It aims to build knowledge and understanding of autism and empower families and carers to advocate for autistic people they support. Local support helps families to get the right understanding and adjustments in place across the services they use.

Autism Central

Autism Independence provides consultancy, training and guidance for those in a range of professions to bridge the gap between families and providers. We also provide support and training for families, opportunities for networking and social events, and activities for our families to share.

Autism Independence CIC

AutonoMe uses the power of mobile technology to enable neurodiverse people and those with learning disabilities to develop skills for independent living and employment. We’ve worked hard to create a model of support which enables people receiving our support to achieve their outcomes. 

Alongside our library of instructional videos accessed through the AutonoMe app, we provide a Development Coordinator, who has experience supporting neurodiverse people and those with learning disabilities, to support the learner to progress towards their outcomes and personalise our support to exactly what’s right for them. Our Development Coordinators also provide training to support staff and employers to make sure everyone involved is working together in support of the learner.

AutonoMe

bibic support children and young people up to the age of 25 through assessments and development of strategies to help them achieve their goals

Bibic

We offer whole family support and a number of social activities for all age groups. We have a dedicated space for families and individuals, where they can connect, seek advice and receive the assistance they require. 

Bridging the Gap Together!

Information, advice and support to Parent Carers. Support with issues related to the care role. Examples include helping carers to know what services and support are available to them, making referrals to services, helping with applications such as the carers wellbeing grant and Blue Badge, and applying to short breaks services.  

Carers Support Centre

One of the main reasons Extraordinary Links CIO was founded in 2020 was to ensure equity for disabled children and ensure they have the same group experiences as other children of their age. We provide free activities for disabled children and offer support and advocacy for parents and carers.

EXTRAORDINARY LINKS CIO

Bristol Autism Project - Holiday activities for families with autistic children 

FACE - Bristol Autism Project

FFLAG Bristol holds monthly meetings in Bristol for parent/carers of LGBT+ youngsters, some of whom have special educational needs.  We are affiliated with FFLAG, a national charity, which is dedicated to supporting parent/carers to understand, accept and support their lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender members with love and pride.

FFLAG Bristol

We are passionate about delivering Therapeutic yoga for children and adults with special needs. We have a simple vision to help others, especially those with additional needs, to break the physical and mental boundaries and live life to the fullest.

Heart Within Yoga- Therapeutic Yoga for Special Needs 

"JIGSAW Thornbury is a charity that for 10 years has worked with children and young people aged 0-25 who have additional needs or disabilities, engaging 850 families over this time. We provide friendship, support, compassion and fun, along with innovative services that empower the whole family to connect, fit in and thrive. Everyone can join in, with or without a diagnosis. W

Jigsaw Thornbury

Khaas seeks to promote the comprehensive needs of BAME disabled children, their carers and families. The organisation aims to promote the education, welfare and benefit of BAME disabled children and their families and also to bring together carers who are suffering from social isolation and depression

Khaas & Out & About

We support children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and their families. We offer tuition and mentoring to children with Education Health Care Plans (EHCPs). The other side to our charity is free services to SEN families including: groups, mentoring, and emotional support. We also run workshops and training to SEN professionals. 

Love Squared

Mothers for Mothers offers support to women and birthing people during pregnancy and until their youngest child attends school, from illness to wellness. One of our support services is SEND Support. Our SEND Peer Support service is aimed at women and birthing people who have children with additional needs (diagnosed or not) or are Neurodivergent themselves. Our SEND Peer Support worker can offer you a listening ear, practical advice or emotional support because she’s been on a similar journey and has navigated the SEND system personally and professionally.

Mothers for Mothers

We gather together SEND parents into nurture groups and regular gatherings where we share experiences, process the often complex feelings and develop real friendships with other people who get it.

Murmuration Community Development

Catrina Lowri is a Neurodiversity and Inclusion trainer, mentor and consultant. Their expertise comes from my lived experience as a neurodivergent teacher, employee and employer. They are also a qualified special educational needs (SEN) teacher and experienced special needs co-ordinator (SENCO) and advisory teacher. 

Neuroteachers

Financial and Future Planning Advice specifically for SEND Parents. Information and friendly guidance on wills, trusts, decision-making, banking and savings accounts for those with SEND. 

PlanIt Future Financial Limited 

Platypus offers support and advice to parents and individuals in the Bristol area around Neuro divergence. Including advocacy, family support, observation and screenings, and parenting advice. Corrina Wood has over twenty years of experience in supporting Send parents, children and families including help with accessing services, managing behaviour and improving school outcomes. Platypus also offers access to counselling support. Come and talk to us at our stand today to find out more.   

Platypus Training & Consultancy

I provide inclusive play therapy for SEND children, I have been working with neurodivergent children and those with additional needs for over 15 years. I have worked therapeutically with children in state schools, and charities and as a therapeutic tutor for children excluded from primary school. 

Red Door Therapy

I look to offer respite care for parents carers who have family members with SEND and other additional needs. Providing this break for parent carers allows you time to focus on your wellbeing, or to spend time with friends and family who maybe don't get your full attention when you are focused on a family member with SEND. 

Respite4you

SEND And You (SAY) is the local Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information Advice and Support Services (SENDIASS) for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. We aim to empower parents/carers, children and young people (aged 0 to 25) to play an active, informed role in making decisions about their education, health and social care. 

SEND and You

We are Sense – supporting everyone who is deafblind or has complex disabilities. We believe everyone should be able to take part in life, no matter their disability. 

Sense

Our mission is to support the mental health and wellbeing for people of all ages and abilities in Bristol and the surrounding areas through our immersive sessions. 

SENDsenses

Sensory Oojamabobs offers a wide range of customisable chewy jewellery and fiddle toys for all ages and needs 

Sensory Oojamabobs 

Bridge in Schools specialises in expert mental health support for marginalised or vulnerable children who would otherwise struggle to access help. We provide in-depth psychotherapeutic support to children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), across the Bristol region, by embedding highly qualified child and adolescent therapists into pastoral teams within specialist, primary and secondary schools. 

The Bridge Foundation

A collection of books to help neurodivergent children

Suziebooks

We are a small charity based in Bristol. Supporting families living with Deafness through providing a range of services, activities and events, 

The Family Centre (Deaf Children)

In person support groups and signposting for families who have children and young people with tourettes. No diagnosis needed.

Tourette’s Action Bristol and Somerset Support Group

Ups and Downs Southwest is a Down Syndrome support charity serving children and young people, their parents/carers and all linked professionals dealing with the health and education of children and young people who have Down Syndrome.

Ups and Downs Southwest

At Gwr we’re making the railway accessible to everyone, we want to make sure that everyone in our community is confident using a train. The accessibility team that will attend the SEND day will focus on improving mobility , accessibility and inclusion at GWR.