Commissioning

Zobia is a Specialist Parenting Practitioner with extensive experience and training in developing and delivering programs for families of children with special needs, including those who have experienced early life trauma. Since 2003, she has worked across the UK to provide valuable support and guidance to these families.

Zobia’s personal experience as a mother of two special needs children, including an adopted child, gives her a deep, empathetic understanding of the challenges faced by families. Her blend of professional expertise and personal insight makes her a highly effective and compassionate resource in her field.

Helen is a registered nurse in learning disabilities (RNLD) and worked as a challenging behaviour specialist nurse within the Berkshire Foundation Healthcare Trust, supporting adults with learning disabilities, as well as their families and carers.

Now, Helen works for Parenting Special Children, where she delivers training on various topics, including sleep management, the “Who’s In Charge?” program, Autism, “Time Out for Special Needs,” and provides one-on-one clinics. 

Helen has many years’ experience as a social worker with a strong background in supporting disabled children and their families. Her personal family experience with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and sensory processing challenges gives her a unique perspective and empathy in her work. Helen’s dual roles as a Sleep Practitioner, and as a Social Worker in a Short Breaks Service, further enriches her understanding and ability to make a positive impact.

Nuala is a seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience in teaching and management within the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) sector. In her role with the charity, she delivers workshops and courses, contributing her extensive expertise to support and educate both families and professionals. She also plays a vital role in the Trauma & Attachment Education Advocacy service, where her background as an adult psychotherapist and specialist trainer is invaluable. Nuala is well-versed in trauma defences, reactive attachment, foetal alcohol syndrome, anxiety, and ADHD, bringing a wealth of knowledge to her training and advocacy work. In addition to her professional experience, Nuala has personal experience as an adoptive parent and kinship grandparent carer. This personal connection further enriches her understanding and empathy, allowing her to offer nuanced and compassionate support to those navigating similar circumstances.

Tess brings over 25 years of experience in business, finance, and project management to her role, with more than 15 of those years spent in the charitable sector. Her extensive background equips her with strong organizational and strategic skills, which she applies to support and enhance the effectiveness of the charity.

Tess has personal experience with the issues faced by PSC families, giving her a deep understanding and empathy for their needs. Her passion for inclusion drives her commitment to ensuring that every child and young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Ruth has over 18 years of experience as a CEO in the charitable sector. She is deeply passionate about supporting parents and carers at all stages of their children’s lives, recognizing the critical importance of providing holistic support throughout their journey. Ruth has developed a reputation for her ability to foster and maintain strong partnerships within the charity sector. She understands the value of collaboration and has successfully built networks that enhance the support available to families and individuals.

On a personal level, Ruth is a parent of neurodivergent adults, which gives her understanding of the challenges and rewards that come with raising children with unique needs. This personal experience fuels her dedication to her work and her empathy for the families she serves. Overall, Ruth’s extensive experience, professional training, and personal insights make her a highly effective and compassionate leader in the charitable sector, particularly in supporting parents, carers, and neurodiverse individuals.