'When you have a child with autism, your parenting experience can feel so different to 'normal'. But the great thing about being part of a group who understand, is that it reminds you you're not alone. I'm not one for public social media groups, so having a safe space to connect with others is brilliant.'

'Being a disabled parent is not something that's talked about often. It sometimes feels like people assume you won't have the same desires as able-bodied people. But of course we do! Our parenting journey is just a bit different! Making friends with people in a similar situation is key.'

'When Gus was first diagnosed with West Syndrome, I fell apart. I was thrown into an unknown world, a world where I didn't want to be. What I needed was people around me to understand how I felt. As brilliant as my friends were, nothing compares to having someone who has first-hand experience.'

'Reaching out to other parents online is great because one SEND parent doesn’t know everything, but every SEND parent knows something. And in this constant uphill battle, knowledge is key and knowledge is power.'

'I've always had anxiety and depression, but when I had my daughter it got to a whole new level. My existing friends were great, but hadn't directly experienced it to be able to help me. It really does affect your parenting and having a crew who get it is so useful.'