Finding support and community through BeyondAutism Early Years Parents Network: Beth and Sam’s story

Beth and Sam, proud mothers of brothers Henry and George, and Lennie, tell us how they have found a new sense of community and support in our BeyondAutism Early Years service. Beth currently has her eldest son Henry enrolled in Early Years while Sam has joined us for the first time with her son, Lennie.

Prior to joining Early Years, both mums spoke about feeling isolated, overwhelmed and hesitant to speak to other parents about the possibility of having autistic children. Beth recalls “with other groups and baby groups, I just never felt like I could talk to parents about what I was going through. You drop them off, you go home, and you speak to parents for a few minutes at the gate, but that’s about it”. Sam also commented about her own difficulties of visiting supposedly child-friendly places like soft play areas, where she feared judgment from other parents.

Meeting at Early Years

Sam and Beth met for the first time this year at one of the BeyondAutism Early Years’ parent discussion groups . These groups offer parents and carers a chance to connect while discussing important and relevant topics amongst themselves, guided by our staff. Beth noticed that Sam, like many parents of autistic children, was struggling to find a school placement for Lennie – a challenge Beth had faced with her first son, Henry. Recognising a kindred spirit, Beth exchanged numbers with Sam, and a friendship blossomed.

Beth described the isolation she felt while trying to find a school for Henry: “When I’d try to speak to friends about it, they don’t understand all the stuff we have to go through when it comes to school… I think it’s hard to make anyone understand just how stressful the school situation is and how stressful the EHCP situation is because you really do have to fight for everything”.

Throughout our parent groups, Beth offered Sam advice, support, and practical tips, extending her help beyond their time at Early Years. Sam expressed her gratitude: “I just feel so comfortable knowing that she’s either been through it or is going through it so I feel like I can approach her, whereas none of my friends or family are in this situation, so they don’t really understand. It’s been a relief having people around me that I can ask questions to and that can support and point me in the right direction”.

Being there for each other

With Sam’s unrelenting determination and Beth’s support, Sam finally received the news that Lennie had secured a place in a special school for this upcoming autumn. Both mums have gained confidence and found comfort in knowing their challenges are not unique. Sam explained, “(The support) is nice because you do feel alone, you think is it just my child or am I doing anything wrong? Am I not doing enough? But when you hear it from other parents, you think, well, they’re in a similar boat, they’ve done everything that we’ve done”.

Their newfound confidence has encouraged Sam and Beth to ‘pay it forward’ with Beth having signed up for SEND law classes and Sam looking to potentially volunteer once Lennie has settled in school.

For Beth, Sam and all the parents at BeyondAutism Early Years, the discussion groups are invaluable. They not only help navigate complex systems like EHCPs and school placement, but also provide a judgement-free space to share experiences and challenges openly as well as problem-solving ideas and aspirations for their families. As Beth and Sam have shown, this support network is crucial in helping them advocate for their own children, their families and for finding a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Finding support and community through BeyondAutism Early Years Parents Network: Beth and Sam’s story

Meeting at Early Years

Being there for each other

If you want to help more families like Beth and Sam get the support they need and ensure it is free for those who access it, please consider making a donation to our Early Years’ service.