About us

Who are Bristol Parent Carers?

We are a non-profit organisation based in Bristol, consisting of volunteer parent carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). As a pan-disability charity, we provide information and support to all families, regardless of their child’s type of need or diagnosis status.

We work with local SEND services to ensure that the support and services they offer suits the needs of families. By working together we can help ensure families, children and young people get the right support, at the right time, and in the right way. We aim to empower families by keeping them informed of the full range of local support options available to them, so they can access the resources they need.

As parent carers ourselves, we understand the importance of having a voice. That’s why we’re dedicated to listening to families and ensuring their thoughts and experiences are taken into consideration. By sharing your experiences with us, you have the opportunity to help shape services that truly meet the needs of families just like yours.

Our News

Our Vision

Our vision is for families to feel empowered, with the right support, at the right time, in a manner that best suits their needs. We imagine a future where SEND processes are effortless and stress-free (for services and families), providing families with the necessary resources and understanding to confidently navigate the path before them.

Collaborating with Bristol SEND services and local SEND charities and other organisations, is key to making this vision a reality. By incorporating parent carer feedback into our work, we strive to continually enhance the services available to all. We believe that together, we can shape a more positive future for families in Bristol.

We aim to bring co-production to the forefront of service partnerships by promoting equality, diversity, accessibility, and reciprocity, ensuring that all voices are heard and all efforts are genuine and authentic.

Our Goals

Our goal is to empower children, young people and families in Bristol to reach their full potential and succeed in their educational and health journey.

We want them to feel confident, supported and in control of their own lives. This means having access to education tailored to their individual needs, schools equipped to support them, helpful and timely advice from health and mental health services, and information on all the support and services available to them.

We’re committed to working with SEND services and local partners to create a positive experience for families navigating SEND services and valuing their partnership in creating the best outcomes for the SEND community.

We want families, children and young people to feel included in education in a way that meets their individual needs, whatever they may be.

We believe every child and young person should have access to a suitable school environment that meets their unique needs.

We want families to have clear and comprehensive information about services offering respite, care and support within the community.

Families should receive prompt help and advice from all services, particularly health and mental health services, during their SEND journey.

Families should receive accurate support and information regarding Education Health Care plan processes with frequent updates on delays and interim support

We want more families to have a positive experience whilst navigating SEND services and to feel like valued partners in achieving good outcomes for their children.

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