The Contact Awards 2025

“When Cath’s eldest, Matthew, was excluded from nursery, Cath fought for his inclusion-he’s now thriving at university. Her daughter Willow is dyslexic and awaiting an ADHD diagnosis, faced challenges at school but with Cath’s support and persistence, remains strong and supported. Her youngest, Flo, who has autism, spina bifida, sensory needs, and Type 1 diabetes, now receives the right care after Cath won a tribunal. Cath’s strength and compassion make her an inspiration and role model to all families navigating the world of SEND.” 

“Lynsey is an extraordinary woman whose life is defined by compassion, resilience, and dedication. A full-time carer to her six-year-old daughter who was diagnosed at birth with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), Lynsey manages constant care, hospital visits and medications with strength and love. 

“Lynsey uses her skills as a former law student to navigate the complexities of a rare medical condition. From learning intricate medical terminology and understanding treatment protocols, to researching clinical trials she has become an expert in her daughter’s care and her fiercest protector, devoted in her pursuit of the best possible quality of life for her child. 

“But what makes Lynsey truly stand out is that her compassion and determination extend far beyond her own family. She is a passionate advocate for the entire TSC community in Scotland, working tirelessly to raise awareness of a condition that remains underrepresented and misunderstood. As Chair of TSC Support Scotland, she raises awareness, helps organise fundraisers and her leadership empowers others. A quiet powerhouse whose tireless efforts makes a lasting different to families like hers, Lynsey is a true inspiration.” 

“Michelle has raised three sons with complex needs, including one requiring full-time care. Despite many challenges, her sons have become respectful young men. She’s a quiet hero -humble, gentle, and endlessly giving. In her role as a Vehicle Passenger Assistant, she supported children with SEND with compassion and dignity, despite no formal training or recognition. Often overlooked, Michelle stands out for her patience, kindness, and deep care. Her life is a testament to the power of unconditional love.” 

“Harvey has duchenne muscular dystrophy and is unable to walk independently. At the moment we are homeless but despite this, he still goes to school with a big smile on his face and has embraced the changes that his condition brings as it progresses.   

“He has become head of his form at school and managed to keep with the best of the best despite missing a lot of school due to all his hospital appointments as they increase.” 

“Lee James has a rare genetic condition, Joubert Syndrome, autism, severe learning difficulties and is totally blind. Since 2015 Lee James has been very restrictive about what he allows in his mouth after getting painful sores on his gums. But thanks to Stuart’s determination and care he has now been able to taste 19 new foods – something I thought I’d never see! 

“We would be lost without Stuart who shows wisdom beyond his years. He’s been covered in ice cream, custard and jelly but has never given up and actually got Lee James to eat new foods. Well done to you both – you’re mams superstars!” 

“Stephen is the only one in the world with his unique chromosome deletion, which we were informed he wouldn’t grow and talk, although he’s defied all the odds with his determination and empathy. As a son of a foster carer he’s supported me through 19 parent and child placements, many with disabilities, lovingly sharing his home, mum and his heart without complaint. He fundraises for a local sports disability charity and has even had a sensory bus named after him. 

“Stephen is truly extraordinary, the lives he’s touched speaks volumes for the amazing young man he’s become.”  

“Raphael is an incredible big brother to his 5-year-old autistic sibling, showing patience, care, and emotional maturity beyond his years – especially during sleepless nights. As a single parent with type 1 diabetes, I often rely on him, and he always steps up with kindness. Despite the challenges we face, he stays focused on school and gives his all. His love, resilience, and quiet strength inspire me beyond words. I’m so proud of the young man he’s becoming.”

“Tabby is an exceptional young carer to her sister Polly, 11, who has a rare genetic disorder and frequent seizures – sometimes nightly. Tabby stays calm, helps with personal care and communication, and diffuses tough moments with sensitivity. A self-taught cook since 11, she makes family meals – including special ketogenic dishes for Polly – and even assists during emergencies. Tabby also advocates for families like hers, speaking on local radio and contributing to research. Mature, caring, and dedicated, Tabby is a true role model. We are so proud of her.”

“Violet is an inspiring sister and advocate for the Deaf community. Her younger sister, Penelope, is Deaf and uses British Sign Language (BSL). Violet recently passed her Level 1 BSL qualification and goes above and beyond to promote Deaf Awareness among her peers. 

“She actively supports our local Deaf Children’s Society, helping with events and fundraising, and volunteers at a BSL club, assisting other students with their learning. Violet’s empathy, dedication, and passion are truly making a difference. She is a remarkable young woman.” 

“My parents have shown extraordinary love and support. They’ve resuscitated their twin granddaughters multiple times, managed complex medical needs, and provided constant care. During a four-month hospital stay, they visited daily with homemade meals and emotional strength. After discharge, they stepped in so I could return to work. Even now, with nursing care in place, they remain our rock – always ready in emergencies and celebrating every milestone. Their selfless, steady love has not only enriched Ruby and Sophia’s lives but given us the strength to keep going.”

“Yvonne is a devoted grandmother to Eva Mae, who has MEF2C Haploinsufficiency, is non-verbal, uses a wheelchair, and has epilepsy. Despite living over 200 miles away, Yvonne is always there during hospital stays, giving us vital support and respite. At 72, she’s Eva’s adventure buddy – first on the rollercoaster, ski slope, or trampoline. She keeps our home running and makes it possible for me to work as a teacher. Her love, energy, and selflessness make her an incredible grandmother. We truly couldn’t do it without her.” 

“When Orpheus’ additional needs became clear and I became a disabled single parent, Emma left her job, adapted her home, and became his full-time carer, completing countless coursed to support us. With patience, love, and joy she attends every therapy appointment. Together, we co-founded SEN frienDs, offering inclusive sensory sessions and support for local families. Emma’s dedication has transformed Orpheus’ life and touched many others. She’s not just a grandparent – she’s our strength, our support, and our hero. 

“Despite busy lives and full-time jobs, this team give up their limited spare time to support local families navigating the SEND system. They also lead collaboration across eight other forums in Cheshire and Merseyside. When I stepped back after a medical diagnosis, the team, my team, stepped up without hesitation – offering personal, emotional, and professional support. Passionate and selfless, they work tirelessly for others and truly deserve recognition for their commitment to the SEND community. 

“With no legal entitlement to education or support beyond 19, families face a cliff edge in care but Alma is changing that. While caring full-time for her son, she has mobilised thousands, engaged politicians, spoken at TEDx Stormont, and become a powerful voice for reform. Her work exemplifies the spirit of the Parent Changemaker Award: community-led, courageous, and profoundly effective. Alma has created momentum for change that cannot be ignored. Compassionate, strategic, and relentless, Alma is not just raising awareness she’s leading real change. Her work deserves national recognition.” 

“Laura is the definition of a parent changemaker. Through Spinning World of Autism, she advocates for autistic individuals, the SEND crisis, and, most notably, AAC (augmentative and alternative communication). A parent of a non-speaking autistic child, Laura supports families daily – sharing accurate AAC information, breaking down myths, and guiding new users. She has spoken at Communication Works, the Houses of Parliament, and co-led webinars. Despite running a business full-time, Laura’s volunteer advocacy is life-changing. Her work empowers families, builds awareness, and ensures every child has the right to a voice.” 

“Louise is such a supportive, thoughtful friend to me, my son who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy, my daughter, and my partner. She uses her time off to help us, plan accessible days out, and lift my spirits when I’m struggling. Despite not having a disabled child herself, she’s become a passionate advocate – contacting the council about inclusive play and accessible spaces so I don’t have to. She’s helped me navigate benefits, shared her contacts, and stood by us from the very beginning. Louise never judges, always shows up, and cheers us on loudly. She’s a diamond, and we’re so lucky – she deserves the world.” 

“I’ve known Linda since I was at preschool. She worked for Guys and St. Thomas Hospital, and when I was pregnant my daughter Ieisha was given only three days to live. Linda always told me not to worry and always encouraged me to stay positive during my pregnancy. When Ieisha was born she was in Intensive Care, Linda would be at the hospital very often for long periods with me encouraging me continuously even though she could see that I had given up hope on Ieisha living. 

“Linda would also accompany us to Great Ormond St Hospital to regular appointments over many years of Ieisha’s childhood, and visit us 3 to 4 days a week and even do babysitting so that I could have a bath take a nap or go shopping. 

“Every parent carer needs a friend like Linda.” 

Scot said: “Sends4dads is a support group for dads and male carers who have a child with special educational needs and/or a disability. The group has made a huge difference to our lives. My son who has combined ASD/ADHD, now enjoys a range of events and activities that we wouldn’t have otherwise been able to access.” 

Michael said: “This group helped me realise I am not alone and can beat anything with friends and confidence. They are quite simply lifesavers.  

“Sends4dads is a lifeline for a lot of dads and other male carers in the Northamptonshire area. It not only helps the men out, it helps the families also. Quite a few of us have built friendships with one another through this group. If the group wasn’t available then this couldn’t of happened. A big shout out goes to the founder Paul Meadows who created sends4dads 10 years ago.”