A mum from Blackburn’s efforts to support the families of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has been recognised with a national award.
Bethany Pegg was given the Best Newcomer Award at the Coram Parent Champions Awards in May for her work over the past year, where she has organised events and improved the outlook for SEND families across the borough.
The award recognised the ‘significant’ and ‘tangible difference’ she has made on the lives of children with SEND and their parents, having organised Saturday clubs and activities for families during the school holidays.
Bethany volunteered to become a Parent Champion as a result of her own lived experience as a SEND mother, which she was able to use to respond to the unmet needs of other families of children with learning difficulties and disability.
Head of Early Years & Community Development at the council, Maria Nugent, said: “Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council is incredibly proud of Bethany’s outstanding achievement.
“In a very short time, she has made a significant difference for SEND families across the borough, her initiative, dedication and ability to turn lived experience into meaningful action make her a highly deserving Best Newcomer, and her work is already making a tangible difference for SEND children and families.”
In addition to setting up Saturday clubs and holiday activities, the Blackburn mum has also used her experience to deliver a number of other inclusive events for SEND families throughout the year, in her role as a volunteer Parent Champion.
This is the second year in a row that a Blackburn volunteer has won a prize at the Coram national awards, with the role designed to help SEND parents turn their expertise into advocacy and to help shape the council’s approach.
She is also working collaboratively with Family Hubs programme to bring a SEND play bus into local communities over the summer, expanding access and opportunity for even more families.
Bethany said: “It was a huge surprise to be recognised with the ‘Best Newcomer’ award for my work as a SEND Parent Champion and with BwD SEND Family Support. This award isn’t just for me — it reflects the incredible support around me.
“Thank you to everyone who has helped along the way, from volunteers, families, businesses and community members to those who have supported with venues, donations, and advice.
“I’m also so grateful to my fellow SEND Parent Champions and co-ordinators for their encouragement, and to my family, friends, and husband for always being there. I couldn’t have achieved this without you all — thank you.”
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