Latest News for Parents & Carers

BBC Young Reporter Competition winner Millie is raising awareness about the vital support these dogs offer as well as the challenges faced. It comes after Millie’s plans to experience freshers’ year with the canine support of Reggie ended when he did not pass the training. Here, they share their story and speak to two students who have experienced campus life with their dogs.

A deaf man named Farid Alimardani was “shocked” when he was offered a job at Waitrose, complete with a personal sign language interpreter. He’s now training to become a wine expert and is preparing for a busy Christmas season. Farid, from Westminster, started working in the fruit and vegetable aisle at the Belgravia Waitrose five years ago. His interpreter and close friend, Emma Thomas, 39, from Hove, helps him communicate with customers.

Mark Briggs, Director of Partnerships at Derby-based social enterprise Nimbus Disability and vice chair of Mansfield’s Portland College has been named as one of the 100 most influential disabled people in the UK – working to break the stigma around disability to create a more accessible and inclusive world for all.

‘All In’ is a new scheme by the Arts Council which aims to improve the experience of people with disabilities and neurodivergent people going to creative and cultural events by removing barriers. It includes the right to a free companion ticket for anyone who needs support from another person to attend an event.

In the last 12 months there has been a 21% increase in calls to Contact’s helpline about exclusions of disabled children from schools. Of particular concern is that younger children with an additional need are facing exclusion – some aged just four and five.