Sunshine Support

25/07/2025

So here we are, the summer holidays are finally upon us. We know that for so many of us, we're bracing for weeks without routine, support or a moment to breathe! We know it can feel relentless and overwhelming before it even starts.

That’s why we held a Facebook Live last week all about that! Chrissa was joined by Nikki and Jen from Bridge the Gap, a brilliant mental health support service who we work with frequently.

In a great hour of chat, the three of them dived into what self-care really means for SEND parents. (Spoiler: it’s not bubble baths and yoga. It’s practical, doable things that make a difference.)

They covered things like:

❤️ Permission to put your needs first (well, we all have to try something new for the first time!)

❤️ Grounded, guilt-free self-care ideas

❤️ How to manage when it all feels too much

❤️ Small wins that can keep you going

The summer holidays are always really tough for SEND parents but it’s not impossible to look after yourself a little at the same time. Watch the video and feel supported: https://www.youtube.com/live/0WoPkwXpsW4?feature=shared

24/07/2025

Last month Chrissa interviewed Kul Mahay - a real change-maker in the field of diversity and inclusion.

BUT! Kul is also someone who really doesn't like the phrase 'diversity and inclusion' - it was a fascinating podcast that really challenged the way we think of diversity!

What do you think?

Watch a clip here: https://youtu.be/_AidJ07akuY?feature=shared

“Real leadership means creating space for difference—not smothering it.”In this powerful clip from Sip of Sunshine, Chrissa Wadlow speaks with leadership exp...

24/07/2025

We hear this time and time again from families…

Gaming isn’t just about screens and scores, for many SEND children, it’s where they feel safe, in control, and understood.

It’s not just fun - it’s regulation.
It’s not zoning out - it’s zoning in to what works.

It’s not ‘just a game’ - it’s often their only break from a world that feels overwhelming.

That’s why we’re so excited to be hosting this eye-opening webinar with Dan Clark from MindJam, where we’ll dive into how gaming can support emotional wellbeing, confidence, and social connection for neurodivergent young people. 💛

📅 26th August | 8–10pm | Live Webinar via Zoom
Book your ticket here - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1377346433259

Whether you're sceptical or sold already - this one will shift your thinking.

23/07/2025

Overwhelmed by the EHCP process? Let’s tackle it together, step by step 💛

If the thought of applying for an EHCP fills you with dread, confusion or overwhelm - you are so not alone. The process is supposed to help… but it often leaves families confused and alone. It’s complicated, messy, and far too easy to get wrong.

That’s why we created EHCP Day - a full-day, in-person workshop led by our amazing Sunshine Team. We’ll guide you step by step through:
✔️ Key pieces of education law
✔️ What counts as evidence (and why it matters)
✔️ How the assessment process really works
✔️ Your rights, your power, and your next steps
✔️ How to actually begin writing your EHCP request letter with expert guidance on hand all afternoon

🗓 Tuesday 7th October
📍 Sunshine Hub, Derby
🕤 9:30am - 6pm
🎟️ Early bird tickets are on sale now and we really hope you can join us - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1345139842479

Let’s make this EHCP journey clearer, calmer, and actually empowering 💛

23/07/2025

We’re open for referrals again! 🌟

So many of you have been reaching out for help - and we’ve heard you loud and clear.
We’ve been operating a short waiting list while we expanded our incredible team of advocates and consultants… but guess what?

💛 The new team members are now fully embedded and already making a huge difference for families across the UK.

✨ So, if you’ve been waiting to get in touch - now’s your moment!
We can help with:
• EHCPs & IDPs
• Tribunal support & appeals
• DLA and PIP (applications and appeals)
• Social care assessments
• Education issues & exclusions
• And anything else relating to SEND 💬

🔗 Send your enquiry here: www.sunshine-support.org
📩 Or sign up directly: https://tinyurl.com/Sunshinesupportadvocacy

You’re not alone - we’re here, and we’re ready. Let’s make change happen together. 💛

22/07/2025

We could not believe our eyes when this was shared with us by one of our advocates who had been sent this by a head teacher!

We saw it first hand. No matter how long we are in this job, we will never not be shocked by this sort of sentiment.

It's disgraceful.

What's the strangest thing you've heard from a professional this week; as a parent or a fellow professional?

Remember we are here to help if you need us, just drop us a message.

22/07/2025

A quick reminder that tonight's webinar with Pete Wharmby on RSD has unfortunately had to be postponed as he's not well.

It will now take place next Tuesday (29 July) at 8pm.

The good news is that if you hadn't been able to secure tickets to this hugely popular session, you can still get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1412458765189

22/07/2025

We're really sorry to let you know that tonight’s RSD webinar at 8pm has been postponed, as Pete Wharmby is unwell and unable to host.

The good news is that we’ve already arranged a new date, it will now take place next Tuesday (29th July) at 8pm.

If you are a ticketholder, then please do check your emails as we've sent you confirmation that you've been moved onto next week instead.

We were really looking forward to this one but health absolutely comes first and we wish Pete a very speedy recovery!

22/07/2025

Your SEND questions - ANSWERED! 💛

Our Ask Me Anything sessions are the perfect opportunity to share your concerns with an expert ear, and our very own Sunshine Consultants will be on hand at our upcoming session on Thursday 31 July to support you with your SEND struggles.

This will not be recorded in order to keep it a safe confidential space!

This is exclusively for members of our Sunshine Academy. Spaces are limited - book quickly to avoid disappointment!

If you aren't yet a subscriber but are looking for more info then head over to www.sunshine-support.org/academy to sign up to our fantastic platform!

21/07/2025

🎒 MAKE THIS SUMMER COUNT — LEARN WHAT THEY DON’T TEACH YOU IN SCHOOL 🎒

Summer isn’t just for the kids… It’s YOUR chance to get clued up on everything SEND - and you can do that on our Sunshine Academy!

👉 Sign up today: www.sunshine-support.org/academy

Whether you’re brand new to this journey or you’ve been battling the system for years - the Sunshine Academy gives you everything you need to feel confident, informed and ready for September.

✅ 200+ easy-to-follow courses on everything SEND
✅ Monthly live advice clinics with expert voices
✅ Meditations, podcasts, home learning resources & more
✅ Learn anywhere, anytime - at home or on holiday
✅ Online community - ask us your burning questions and get answers from our team.
✅ Flexible membership - cancel or pause anytime

💛 Just £10.99 a month - no stress, no pressure, just expert knowledge in your pocket.

👉 Sign up today and take control of your SEND knowledge this summer: www.sunshine-support.org/academy

📲 Download the app on iOS or Android and start learning instantly.

Why wait for September to get answers? Start now!

21/07/2025

Attendance Awards Are a Slap in the Face to the Children Who Can’t Attend.

There, we said it.

We don’t say that lightly. But it needs to be said.

Every time a school hands out certificates for 100% attendance, it reinforces a painful message:
You’re only worthy if you turn up.
Even if turning up feels like walking through fire.
Even if the classroom isn’t safe.
Even if your body and mind scream no.

This isn’t about motivation. It’s about unmet needs. What about the children who want to learn but can’t access the environment?

The truth is, many children aren’t refusing school; they’re actually communicating that something’s wrong:
Trauma, anxiety, sensory overwhelm, burnout, unmet needs, bullying, dysregulation, feeling invisible… the list goes on.

Remember - they’re not refusing. They’re surviving.

And yet… their absence is punished. While the struggle behind it is ignored.

At Sunshine Support, we’re working to change this narrative. To shine a light on the deeper truths behind school attendance difficulties.

Because behind every child who can’t attend, is a family holding the pieces; and often, a teacher trying their best with too little support.

You are not alone. We see you.

💛 Join us this September for School Avoidance Awareness Week - the week that finally says we hear you.
And if you want to understand more about school attendance struggles, and what actually helps - our Sunshine Academy is here for you:
👉 www.sunshine-support.org/academy

20/07/2025

Here’s what’s happening this week at Sunshine Support:

📅 Tuesday: The Crippling Reality of Rejection Sensitivity Disorder - join our powerful webinar with Pete Wharmby to better understand RSD - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1412458765189

☕ Friday: Cuppa&Chat in person at the Sunshine Hub - come along for a friendly chat with others who get it - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/385644100887

💛 And remember, our Sunshine Academy is open 24/7 for on-demand SEND support anytime you need it - www.sunshine-support.org/academy

Swipe for all the details - we can’t wait to see you!