— Welcome to,
About Us
01.
About VSN
The Voices for SEND Support Network (VSN) is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by families of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), regardless of their background. VSN places a particular focus on families with children affected by conditions such as Autism and ADHD.
We began our work with the Somali community in London and other regions of the UK as a pilot project, which has since expanded to include all marginalized communities across London and the wider UK. The establishment of this network was driven by a clear gap in both research and support services tailored to the cultural and social contexts of these families.
Many families within these communities have limited awareness and understanding of autism, and this is often compounded by social stigma. As a result, some families choose to keep their children with autism at home or turn to traditional healing practices and Islamic treatments instead of accessing evidence-based interventions.
VSN seeks to bridge these gaps by offering culturally sensitive resources, education, and support. Our mission is to empower SEND families and foster greater inclusivity and understanding within the autism and wider SEND community.
02.
Mission
The mission of the Voices for SEND Support Network (VSN) is to provide comprehensive support and resources to families of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), particularly those affected by autism. We place a strong emphasis on addressing the needs of diverse communities in London and across the UK. Our goal is to empower families by raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting a deeper understanding of autism within their cultural contexts.
03.
Vision
At Voices for SEND Support Network (VSN), our vision is of a society where every family affected by autism feels understood, supported, and equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary to thrive. We envision a future where cultural barriers are dismantled, and evidence-based interventions are accessible to all—ensuring that individuals with autism can reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives within their communities.
The objectives of VSN, for the public benefit, are to advance the education and well-being of families and young people with learning disabilities (the beneficiaries) in the UK who face disadvantage and isolation. We aim to achieve this through:
a) The development of resources, training, and advocacy to raise awareness of the support available to families with SEND children and young people; and
b) Providing a supportive network where families can share experiences and knowledge of living with SEND individuals, thereby promoting community connection and enhancing the overall well-being of SEND families.
04.
Background
The need for Voices for SEND Support Network (VSN) arose from the lack of research, resources, and culturally appropriate support available to families of children with SEND—particularly those affected by autism within global majority communities and the wider population. Many of these families face significant barriers in accessing appropriate services and interventions, which often leads to a reliance on traditional healing practices and cultural remedies rather than evidence-based approaches. This gap in support frequently results in children with autism being kept at home or receiving inadequate care, further intensifying the challenges faced by both the children and their families.
05.
Core Objectives
Awareness and Education
VSN is committed to increasing awareness and understanding of autism among families of children with SEND through culturally sensitive educational initiatives and outreach programs.
Advocacy and Support
We advocate for the rights and needs of families affected by autism and SEND more broadly, providing tailored support services that address their unique challenges and empower them to navigate the complexities of the autism landscape.
Collaboration and Partnership
VSN collaborates with community organizations, healthcare providers, research institutions, and education providers—such as schools, universities, and colleges—as well as policymakers to foster partnerships that promote inclusivity, improve access to services, and enhance cultural competence within autism support networks.
Research and Innovation
We support research initiatives aimed at advancing knowledge and understanding of autism and SEND more broadly within families and communities, driving evidence-based interventions and practices that are both culturally relevant and effective.
At VSN,
we are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of BAME families affected by autism. Through our mission-driven approach and collaborative efforts, we aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment where every individual with autism is valued, understood, and empowered to thrive.