SEND Butterflies South Coast
Martin Silman
SEND Butterflies South Coast: A Beacon of Support for Parent Carers
Navigating the world of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can be a daunting journey, especially when you're a parent carer juggling numerous responsibilities. This is where SEND Butterflies South Coast (SBSC) steps in, offering a lifeline to those who need it most. Founded and run by neurodivergent volunteers with lived experience, SBSC is a community group dedicated to supporting parent carers of individuals with special educational needs and disabilities.
What We Offer
1. Coffee Mornings:
Join us on the first Friday of every month at the Portsmouth Carers Centre, located at Orchard Road, Southsea, PO4 0AD. Our coffee mornings are a chance to unwind, connect with others in similar situations, and share experiences over a warm cup of coffee. It's a welcoming space where understanding and camaraderie are always on the menu.
2. Advice and Support:
Whether you're facing a specific challenge or simply need someone to talk to, SBSC is here to offer guidance and support. Our volunteers, who understand the intricacies of parent caring from personal experience, are available to lend a helping hand.
3. Closed Facebook Group:
Join our private Facebook group to connect with other parent carers in a safe and supportive environment. It's a space where you can share advice, ask questions, and find solidarity with others who truly understand your journey.
4. Help with DLA & PIP Forms:
Navigating the paperwork for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can be overwhelming. We offer assistance with completing these forms to ensure you get the support you’re entitled to.
5. Support with/at Meetings:
Whether it’s an educational meeting or another important appointment, we provide support to help you advocate effectively for your child.
6. Navigating SEND and Education:
Understanding the SEND system and navigating educational provisions can be complex. Our volunteers offer practical advice and support to help you make sense of it all.
7. Peer Contact:
Connecting with peers who truly understand the unique challenges of being a parent carer can be incredibly validating. Our group provides opportunities to meet others in similar situations and share experiences.
8. Signposting to Other Organisations:
We can guide you to other organisations and resources that may offer additional support or services tailored to your needs.
9. Summer Activities for Families:
We believe in celebrating the joys of family life. Our summer activities offer fun and engaging opportunities for families to bond and enjoy quality time together.
Get in Touch
We’re here to support you every step of the way. To learn more about what we offer or to get involved, find us on Facebook @ SEND Butterflies South Coast or email us at
Join us at our next coffee morning and become part of a community that understands and supports you. Together, we can make the journey a little easier and a lot more rewarding.
Contact Information:
- Facebook: @ SEND Butterflies South Coast
- Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Coffee Mornings: First Friday of each month at Portsmouth Carers Centre, Orchard Road, Southsea, PO4 0AD
We look forward to meeting you and supporting you on this journey. You don’t have to go through it alone—SBSC is here for you.
Enable Ability are hosting coffee mornings in conjunction with SEND Butterflies South Coast
Parent Carer Coffee Mornings
At the Carers Centre, Orchard Road, Southsea, PO4 0AD
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm.
Dates
- Friday 6th September 2024
- Friday 4th October 2024
- Friday 1st November 2024
- Friday 6th December 2024
- Friday 10th January 2025
- Friday 7th February 2025
- Friday 7th March 2025
- Friday 4th April 2025
- Friday 2nd May 2025
- Friday 6th June 2025
- Friday 4th July 2025
At our coffee mornings you can chat with other parent carers and share your experiences over a hot or cold drink and light refreshments. You can also access more specific support from the SBSC committee who can offer help and advice or signpost you to further or more targeted support.
Please note: The carers centre has disabled access but is not set up to cater for children. If you need to bring a young person with you, please speak to us first and ensure you bring something to entertain them.