SENcircle Wellness
The SENcircle Wellness project was designed to support the mental health and well-being of parents and carers of children with additional needs. Through a series of therapeutic workshops, we introduced strategies to help manage stress, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional regulation.
Our workshops created a safe, supportive space where parents could openly discuss their challenges, share experiences, and learn from each other. This peer support network became invaluable, helping parents feel less isolated and more empowered. The impact extended beyond the participants, as parents reported a more positive home environment, benefiting their children as well.
We developed a comprehensive wellness programme facilitated by professional therapists, including acupuncture, mindfulness, floral workshops, art therapy, yoga, and mosaic art sessions. These therapies were selected based on community feedback and were scheduled during school hours to ensure accessibility. Parents reported that sessions, particularly breathwork and muscle relaxation, significantly reduced stress and anxiety.
One key outcome was participants recognizing their own mental health needs. Many parents had experienced long-term stress and hypervigilance but had not connected these feelings to their circumstances. The workshops helped them identify strategies for self-care, strengthening their ability to manage ongoing challenges.
A peer support system naturally developed, bridging the experiences of parents with young children and those navigating teenage years. Discussions highlighted gaps in support systems in Northern Ireland, particularly regarding disability living allowance and the lack of therapies in special schools. This motivated parents to explore advocacy opportunities, including raising concerns with local MLAs.
The Elevate programme was instrumental in helping us plan for the future, build partnerships, and develop sustainable support systems. The mentoring provided structure and guidance, enabling us to strategically plan next steps and secure long-term impact.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many parents eager to support ongoing funding efforts. The flexibility of the grant was critical, allowing us to tailor sessions to community needs. SENcircle Wellness has strengthened connections, resilience, and advocacy, ensuring parents and carers feel valued and supported—a foundation for long-term community well-being.
