Introduction
Parent support groups are a great way to meet other parents for practical and emotional support. There are face-to-face groups and virtual ones through social media platforms. Support groups are often set up and run by parents and carers of children with additional needs who want to reach out and help others. Some professionals and organisations also run their own groups, such as the SENDsational coffee mornings.
Groups can offer
- Friendship
- Opportunities to socialise
- Information and advice
- Emotional and moral support
- A listening ear
- A regular meeting place
- Activities, such as a crèche for siblings or family days out
Local support groups
Local groups vary by the type of service they offer and can be open to parents and carers of children with any disability. Others are for parents whose children have the same condition. It is worth trying different ones because they vary.
National support groups
National support groups are usually for parents of children with specific conditions. National groups offer support in a range of ways, which might include:
- Providing good quality information
- Creating opportunities to get in touch with other families of children with the same condition
- Running family events
- Producing newsletters
The Local Offer includes both local and national groups which may be useful for local families. You can browse our services to find support groups. If you run a local support group and would like to be added to the list please use the ‘feedback’ button at the bottom of this page to leave details.
Events
Some services and support groups run events. You can find details of events being run here.