Empowering Parents: Advocating for Your Child with Learning Disabilities and Autism

Supporting a child with learning disabilities or autism can feel daunting. Parents often face complex systems, unclear processes, and emotional hurdles while trying to secure the right support. But strong, informed advocacy can make a real difference in your child’s education, development, and overall wellbeing.

This guide offers practical advice for families in Lewisham to help you feel confident in advocating for your child and ensuring their needs are recognised and met.

Understand Your Child’s Unique Needs

Every child is different. Whether your child has autism, dyslexia, ADHD, or another learning difficulty, understanding their individual strengths and challenges is the foundation of effective advocacy.

Start by:

• Learning about their diagnosis and how it affects their learning and behaviour

• Observing how they respond to different environments, routines, and teaching styles

• Collecting insights from teachers, SENCOs (Special Educational Needs Coordinators), therapists, and healthcare professionals

For example, a child with autism may find busy classrooms overwhelming due to sensory sensitivities, while a child with dyslexia might benefit from structured literacy support. The more you understand, the better you can communicate your child’s needs.

Know Your Rights and What Support is Available

Navigating the UK education and healthcare systems can be confusing, but you don’t have to do it alone. In Lewisham, support is available through:

• Your child’s school SENCO - your first point of contact for discussing concerns and accessing support

• Your local Council's SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) services - offering guidance on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), assessments, and local resources.

• Local charities and advocacy groups - such as Contact, IPSEA, or Lewisham Parent and Carer’s Forum

Familiarise yourself with the SEND Code of Practice, which outlines your child’s rights and the responsibilities of schools and local authorities.

Build Collaborative Relationships with Professionals

Advocacy works best when it’s built on partnership. Establish open, respectful communication with your child’s teachers, therapists, and healthcare providers.

Here’s how:

• Arrange regular meetings to review progress and raise concerns

• Share your observations and insights about your child’s preferences and triggers

• Ask questions and request clarification when needed

• Keep a record of conversations, decisions, and agreed actions

For example, if your child struggles with transitions, you might work with the school to create a visual timetable or introduce calming strategies.

Prepare for EHCP Reviews and School Meetings

Meetings about your child’s support, especially EHCP reviews, can feel intimidating. Preparation helps you stay focused and confident.

Before the meeting:

• Review your child’s current EHCP or support plan

• Write down your goals, concerns, and any questions

• Bring relevant documents such as medical reports, assessments, or examples of schoolwork

• Consider inviting a trusted friend, advocate, or support worker

During the meeting, stay focused on your child’s needs. Be specific about what support you’re requesting, whether it’s speech therapy, sensory breaks, or a quiet space for exams.

Communicate Clearly and Positively

How you express your concerns can shape the response you receive. Use calm, constructive language that focuses on solutions.

Try to:

• Describe specific behaviours or challenges rather than general frustrations

• Explain how certain adjustments will help your child thrive

• Acknowledge the efforts of staff and professionals

• Stay patient, even when discussions are difficult

For instance, instead of saying “The school isn’t helping,” you might say “My child responds well to visual prompts, can we explore using more of those in class?”

Keep Records and Follow Up

Documentation is key. Keep copies of:

• Assessments and reports

• EHCPs and school-based support plans

• Emails and letters

• Notes from meetings and phone calls

If you feel your child’s needs aren’t being met, use your records to request a review or raise concerns with the school or Lewisham SEND services. Follow up regularly to ensure agreed support is in place and adjusted as needed.

Connect with Other Parents and Support Networks

You’re not alone. Lewisham has a strong community of parents and carers who understand the journey. Joining a local support group can offer:

• Emotional support and shared experiences

• Practical advice and tips

• Updates on local services, workshops, and events

Groups like Lewisham Parent and Carer’s Forum or SENDIASS Lewisham are great places to start. If you're based elsewhere in the country, find alternatives in your borough. Connecting with others can boost your confidence and help you feel more empowered.

Celebrate Your Child’s Strengths

Advocacy isn’t just about addressing challenges, it’s also about recognising and celebrating your child’s unique strengths. Whether it’s creativity, humour, memory or kindness, highlighting these qualities helps build a support plan that nurtures their self-esteem and potential.