Peer Support

Support from Someone Who Truly Gets It

Being the parent of a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming and isolating — but you don't have to face it alone. At SEND Friends, I offer calm, compassionate peer support based on lived experience and deep understanding. Whether you're navigating diagnoses, school challenges, daily overwhelm or just need someone to listen without judgement, I'm here to walk alongside you.

Please note: We do not diagnose, assess or provide medical, therapeutic or legal advice.

1:1 Peer Support

I offer a 30-45 minute introductory support meeting free of charge to gain an understanding of your requirements, signpost and help you put together a strategy- or, if appropriate, let you know how I can help further, and provide a quote for that help with absolutely no obligation. I will always be here as a listening ear and will always try to work to your budget. I genuinely don't want anyone to feel lost or alone. If you need some support regarding SEND- (EHCP reviews, gathering evidence for assessments, attending school meetings with you, strategies in the home, anything relating to autism, ADHD, ARFID, OCD, Tourette's, anxiety and more) feel free to get in touch to see if I might be the support you need. I will always be honest if I'm not the right service to support and will do my best to signpost you onward in that situation. My ability to support more time-intensive areas such as an EHCP review, or where there are statutory deadlines in place are subject to capacity and by prior agreement only.


What to expect:

Gentle, confidential space to talk openly about what's going on. Together, we can explore:

  • Being new to 'SEN', reframing thinking and exploring stereotypes and fears

  • Emotional overwhelm, anxiety or burnout

  • School issues, or EHCP concerns

  • Understanding your child's needs and behaviour

  • Understanding paperwork and processes

  • Strategies that support your child and protect your wellbeing

  • And more... feel free to get in touch to see how I can support you


Available:

  • Online (Zoom/Google Meet)

  • In person in by appointment at Sussex Pavilion, Cleethorpes (subject to availability)

Free Introduction meeting: 30-45 minutes, followed by a summary of what we have discussed and your next steps.  If appropriate and requested, a quote for more bespoke support can be provided with no obligation.

I understand that finances can be a barrier, so I aim to keep costs low—and I'll always do my best to find a balance that works for your budget.

How to Book

You can request a session or group place by emailing info@sendfriends.co.uk or using the contact form on this website. Once confirmed, you'll receive full details and any relevant paperwork. All sessions are confidential, welcoming, and led by me, Leanne Thompson — Peer Support Facilitator, autistic adult, and fellow parent.

Group Peer Support

Coming soon...

Early in 2026 I will be introducing regular Peer Support groups, which will take the form of drop-in events on the following topics:

  • Late Identified Neurodivergent Adults 

  • Parent Carers

The aim of these group session is to encourage sharing of experiences, allow for connecting with others who really 'get it', to offer an opportunity to be heard, understood and for signposting to further support. Please check back for more details coming soon.

Testimonials

"A few of friends have children with additional needs, and they found the whole process around EHCPs and how to get schools to help their children difficult. I passed on your details and you took the time to guide them through the process and give them help and support. You are always selfless with your support and give helpful and measured advice"

Parent

"You were an ear to vent to, gave advise and reassurance that we were doing the right things when we were struggling to get the two boys into school when we moved to Derbyshire."

Parent Carer

Leanne has not only helped me understand my own additional needs, she has also help me understand my son's SEN needs. Leanne helped me get school on board and made last year a safe and accommodating environment for him. She has been a hero and guiding light in a what was a dark time in our lives. I am now more understanding, have strategies in place and we are all happier thanks to the knowledge and support of Leanne. I will forever be grateful for her help and support.

Parent