Looking after yourself as a parent or carer

Top tips from parents of children with SEND by parents

• Be kind to yourself.
• It's okay to ask for help- wherever that comes from- community, family, friends, services. Utilise community spaces. There is no shame attached to this
• We are parents- it's okay to get it wrong! This journey can be long- buy a helmet!
• Take notes, use note pads, post it notes, voice notes- whatever works for you
• Do your research if you can
• Plan before meetings- know what you want to say and give details. Write down questions to know you want to ask. Don’t be afraid to take time out of a meeting if you need it.
• Take someone with you for moral support- someone you trust
• Ask for a named contact that you can communicate with
• Give yourself a treat after every meeting- food, bath, TV etc
• Be silly! Have fun!

Places you can go to for support

These sessions are drop ins and you don't need to book on in advance. Just turn up when you need someone to talk to.

The Blackpool Parent Carer Facebook page is monitored daily and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.