SEND Shenanigans

In this episode, Debs, Emma, and Gemma discuss the joys and challenges of celebrating Christmas as parent carers. From non-traditional Christmas dinners and quiet spaces to managing expectations and finding humour in the chaos, this episode is packed with relatable moments and practical tips. Tune in for heartwarming stories, laugh-out-loud anecdotes, and a reminder that there’s no "right" way to...

In this episode, Debs, Gemma, and Emma dig into the challenges and tips for working with schools as SEND parent carers, especially as a new school year begins. They share practical advice on maintaining clear communication, documenting important conversations, and building positive relationships with teachers and support staff. Debs highlights the importance of keeping a written record of all agre...

In this episode, Debs, Emma, and Gemma dive deep into the labels, assumptions, and misunderstandings that parent carers face. From being branded “difficult” or “hard to reach” by professionals to dealing with the outdated perceptions of some politicians, the trio doesn’t hold back on discussing the emotional toll and resilience required to navigate these stereotypes. Emma shares how she and her co...

In this episode of SEND Shenanigans, we explore the hurdles parent carers face in the world of employment. Whether juggling a job, navigating self-employment, or dealing with the complexities of Carer's Allowance, the struggle is real. Tune in as we discuss the challenges, share our stories, and provide tips on balancing work and caring responsibilities. It's time to shed light on the resilience a...

In this episode of SEND Shenanigans, we dive into the complex emotions of parent carer grief and guilt. From questioning if we caused our child's disability to the heartbreak of not securing essential services, and even the guilt of being too ill to engage in social activities – we cover it all. Join us as we share personal stories, offer support, and remind each other that we're doing our best, e...

In this week’s episode, Gemma and Debs chat abut the challenges of inclusive events in the school holidays.  Gemma shares how she contacted several venues to put on SEN events last year and ended up with 3-4 events a week to choose from. Debs shares how she and friends came together to organise a large, inclusive live music festival in Kent. Sharing what worked for them, what the challenges are an...

Feeling abandoned post-diagnosis is a sentiment all too familiar for many SEND parents, and that's exactly what Debs, Gemma, and Emma are tackling in this heartfelt episode of Send Shenanigans. "Diagnosed Then Dumped" delves into the complex emotions and challenges that come after receiving a diagnosis for your child, when the initial flurry of appointments and attention gives way to an overwhelmi...

Debs, Gemma, and Emma dive headfirst into the ocean of comments that SEND parents hear on the reg. From the cringeworthy "Only special people get special children" to the well-meaning but exhausting "I don't know how you do it," we're unpacking the good, the bad, and the downright laughable things that people say. Join us as we share our own experiences and those from our vibrant SEND Shenanigans...

Meet your hosts and find out what to expect in SEND Shenanigans. Wear headphones if children are in the room.