Marie Martin

SEND Warrior Mum

Having my Autistic Son Zak, has made me realise what’s really important and I’m determined to make a difference for others! I spent 20 years in the Telecommunications industry, before becoming a Parent Carer to my 19 year old Autistic son Zak. Navigating the SEND world, has been an isolating journey with relentless battles, just to get the education and support that he’s legally entitled to. I home school my son and have opened up Work Experience channels based on my Sons Special Interests within the Construction, Highways and Power industries. It’s been a steep learning curve and resulted in me wanting to make a difference, to ensure that support and inclusivity improves within both education and employment for other children. On Twitter, I’m known as SEND Warrior Mum making a difference!, where I support Parents and run live weekly Carer sessions. I also work with The Disabled Childrens Partnership, campaigning for change and accountability. I have featured in various National and Local Newspapers and done a couple of Podcasts, sharing our journey, to show how we’ve overcome the adversity and to give people hope. I’m really looking forward to joining the Disability Expo Team and the next part of my journey!