Cliff speaks with Karen-Jane (KJ), a parent from Falkirk, Scotland, whose autistic son stands to lose his vital support if the local council moves forward with its imminent plan to close enhanced provision units for the education of children with complex needs. KJ shares her family’s struggles to secure the right educational environment and their battle to fight the closure.

The episode highlights the flaws in the consultation process, and how mobilising through a grassroots movement can be leveraged to protect these essential services.

EPISODE REVEALS

Every child in the UK has the right to an education. Yet, children with special needs are repeatedly failed.

It is important to keep up to date with local policy changes and consultations that may affect your child’s support. Don´t rely on the authorities sending you a notification. Often, they act behind your back.

Don’t hesitate to question and get involved as soon as you hear about changes.

Joining together with other parents and professionals through petitions, support groups, or social media amplifies your voice and drives change.

Don´t rely on the mandated consultation processes being followed. Stay alert.

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed—seeking support from others who understand your journey can help you cope and persist.

BEST MOMENTS

"Typically, you would expect them to letter all these parents. No, they didn't letter them. They apparently did a group call, which is an email that goes out, that didn't actually reach any of the parents."

"If we were forced back to our mainstream school, I don't think Gabe would cope."

"Please join the fight and sign that petition and really make a difference."

EPISODE RESOURCES

Please sign the petition:- https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-closure-of-enhanced-provision-units-for-asn-kids

About KJ

KJ is a Mum who is leading the fight against the governments proposition to close Special Educational Needs units. All she is asking is for your support to sign and share the petition supporting these special educational needs centres staying open.

Facebook group - Action Against Falkirk Council Enhanced Provision Proposals - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1292003289370470

No school places for 10 special needs pupils in Medway - BBC News - https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy9ngg0w4wdo

RESOURCES

Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw

Join our free community on Discord:

Because Meta is shutting down FB messenger community chats, lets continue the supporting conversations here on Discord - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

CONTACT ME

Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08

Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠

X - @KilmisterCliff

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!