The SEND Mams Club was created from lived experience, resilience and the desire to ensure that no SEND mum feels alone.

As a mother to a wonderful son with complex health needs, my journey into the SEND world began the moment he was born. Over time he was diagnosed with Smith-Magenis Syndrome, TRIO gene syndrome, autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, challenging behaviours and other complex health conditions. Alongside the love and pride I have for my son came a path filled with hospital appointments, assessments, advocacy, sleepless nights, and navigating systems that can often feel overwhelming.

Like many SEND parents, I quickly realised that this journey can sometimes feel isolating. While I carry many roles in my life mam, stepmam, wife, sister, daughter, auntie, cousin, friend and Chief Executive being a SEND mam is the role that has shaped me the most. It has taught me strength, patience, advocacy and the importance of community.

Throughout my journey, I searched for spaces where SEND mothers and carers could come together not just for advice, but for genuine friendship, understanding and support from people who truly get it. A space where we could laugh, cry, share experiences, and take a moment to breathe together.

When I struggled to find that space, I decided to create it with the help of another SEND mam.

The SEND Mams Club was founded to bring SEND mothers, parents and carers together to build a supportive community rooted in connection, compassion and understanding. It is a place where parents can find SEND parent support, build meaningful friendships and take part in social activities that prioritise wellbeing, connection and belonging.

At its heart, The SEND Mams Club is about community. It is about standing alongside one another through the highs and the challenges of raising children with additional needs. It is about creating spaces where SEND families feel seen, heard and supported.

Because no SEND mam or carer should ever feel like they have to walk this journey alone.

Hi, I’m Emma, a SEND mum to three children, including my eldest son who has 1p36 deletion syndrome and Autism. I had him when I was 26, and when we received his diagnosis 2.5 years later (after a lot of pushing) it very quickly felt like a case of sink or swim. I instantly felt isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure where to turn. Like many parents starting this journey, I quickly realised how little support there can be for families navigating life with additional needs.

After having my third child, I reached a point where I felt completely exhausted and alone. It was one of the hardest periods of my life, but it also became a turning point. I began focusing on my own wellbeing through exercise and prioritising my mental and physical health, which slowly helped me regain clarity and strength.

Over the years I’ve built a lot of experience within the SEND community. I’m a Governor at two SEN schools in the city and have worked in a number of schools across the area, supporting both children and adults with additional needs. I am now a Pilates instructor specialising in working with people who have disabilities and complex needs. Through these experiences, and through my own journey as a Mum I’ve seen just how many families are struggling to navigate the system and find the right support.

That’s why we have created The SEND Mams Club.

Our aim is to create a welcoming, supportive space where Mums can come together to talk openly, share experiences, ask questions, and support one another. A place where you can vent, make friendships, learn about what support is available, and feel understood by people who truly get it.

We’re seeing more and more SEND diagnoses every year, yet the support available often doesn’t reflect that increase. No one should feel like they’re facing this journey alone. It can be scary and overwhelming, and the truth is that none of us planned for this path - but together, we can help each other navigate it.