Meet the Team

At the heart of Derby Send Voice is our dedicated Management Team, the driving force that keeps everything ticking along. The team take on the essential behind-the-scenes work: organising events, meeting with local services, and making sure activities run smoothly. But what truly sets them apart is their lived experience.

Every member is a parent carer, bringing not only professional commitment but personal passion to the role. They understand the challenges firsthand and are united by a powerful belief: that every child, young person, and parent carer deserves to have their voice heard, valued, and acted upon.

Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. - Helen Keller.png

Abby
Co-Chair

Im a mum of two children with SEND - one in mainstream school and the other in specialist provision, so i understand how different the journey can look for each child.

I got involved with Derby SEND Voice because i want to help make a positive difference to the experience of children and families across the city. Its about making sure our voices are heard and that services genuinely reflect what families need.

Emma
Co-Chair

I am a mum to 3 lovely boys, who are in mainstream and specialist settings.

I have spent over a decade working in SEND education and am passionate about SEND and wellbeing.

I am looking forward to representing our lived experiences where it matters and supporting positive change

Justine
Co-Ordinator

I'm a mum of three, including one child who attends a specialist setting and deeply understand how isolating the journey can feel, and just how vital it is to be truly listened to and understood. I'm currently in my third year of a degree in SEND, driven by a passion to support and empower other parent carers. My goal is to help ensure that lived experiences are not only heard but used to shape meaningful, positive change for families across Derby.

What types of disabilities are represented

Derby SEND Voice is a pan disability forum, meaning we represent and include families of children and young people with all types of SEND, regardless of diagnosis or level of need.

Our members’ children have a wide range of needs, including Autism, ADHD, sensory impairments, dyslexia, learning difficulties, speech and language challenges, physical disabilities, medical conditions, and more. We embrace this diversity and work to ensure that every family's voice is heard and reflected in the development of local services.

Our members

At Derby SEND Voice, we believe that true representation comes from embracing diversity in all its forms. It’s vital that our membership reflects the wide range of experiences and backgrounds found across Derby—from families living in different parts of the city.

Our members have children and young people in mainstream education, special schools, home educated and others moving into employment, every voice matters. By including families from different cultural, social, and educational contexts, we ensure that our work is informed by real-life experiences and that the services we help shape are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all.

Welcome to our base - Friar Gate Studios

Derby SEND Voice is proud to be based at Friar Gate Studio, right in the heart of Derby city centre, making us easily accessible for families,

professionals, and partners across the city, helping us stay connected and visible within the community. Friar Gate Studio is also home to T2, a well-respected local organisation, and is fast becoming a thriving SEND Hub in Derby—a place where collaboration, innovation, and support for children and young people with SEND are actively growing.

Being part of this dynamic space strengthens our ability to engage, influence, and work alongside others who share our commitment to inclusion and positive change.

Please be aware that there will not be someone here at all times, so please contact us to make an appointment.