Advice and Guidance
We’re here to support you
Contact our team today
We provide clear, practical guidance to help families navigate the complexities of caring for a child with additional needs. This includes support with understanding welfare benefits, planning care effectively, accessing respite services, and connecting with local support networks. Our aim is to make essential information easier to understand and act on.
Empowerment
We believe that informed families are empowered families. Our support and guidance equip parents and carers with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their child and family. From understanding rights and entitlements to communicating effectively with professionals, we help you feel prepared to make your voice heard.
Lived Experience
Our support is enriched by real-life insight. Learn from someone who has personally navigated the challenges across health, education, social care systems, and home adaptations. This lived experience brings understanding, empathy, and practical advice that goes beyond theory.
Kate Dixon, Children and Young Person Specialist at Big Stepping Stones, combines professional expertise with lived experience as mum to her 15-year-old son, Leo, who has cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, and complex needs. Through daily life, she understands the realities families face—securing specialist equipment, wheelchairs, and home adaptations, while navigating complex systems to ensure children can move safely, comfortably, and with confidence.
Kate has successfully challenged Continuing Healthcare (CHC) decisions, found appropriate respite care, and developed ways to clearly communicate real-life needs to professionals. She recognises how behaviour is often linked to pain, posture, and sensory needs, and focuses on practical, personalised strategies that support wellbeing. Above all, she is a passionate advocate for families—committed to creating practical solutions and pathways parents, siblings, and children not just cope, but truly thrive.
Start the Conversation
Our team is here to help you explore the support available. Many parents carry these worries in silence. Starting the conversation can be the first step towards finding a way forward. You can contact us to:
- Arrange an initial conversation
- Discuss your child’s needs
- Explore potential funding options and support services