Meet Corinne, an IPSEA Tribunal Support Service volunteer.  As a parent of three children with additional needs, Corinne has firsthand knowledge of the challenges families face. Over the past four years, she has used this experience to empower other parents and carers, and support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

 

Hello, my name is Corinne, and I have been volunteering with IPSEA for four years. I started on the call-back service and now provide casework support on our Tribunal Support Service (TSS). Additionally, I offer my time on our call-in service whenever there’s a lull with a case. 

My inspiration to volunteer with IPSEA came from my own struggles navigating a broken system as the parent of three children with additional needs. I believe that ‘knowledge is power,’ and I am passionate about empowering other parents who face similarly difficult and distressing situations. 

A day in the life of a volunteer 

I don’t have a typical week as a TSS volunteer; my workload varies according to the needs of the families I support. I enjoy the flexibility of the role and the fact that it can fit around my full-time work commitments. Whether I am handling a complex tribunal case or providing guidance through the call-in service, each day brings new challenges and rewards. 

One memorable moment during my time volunteering was during my first TSS case when a tribunal order finally came through at 9.45pm one evening. I had established a really positive relationship with the parent and called her immediately. She literally screamed with joy at the news! Moments like these are incredibly rewarding and remind me why I do this work. 

The impact of volunteering 

Knowing that I am making a difference to families is deeply fulfilling. Additionally, I have gained an enormous amount personally from volunteering with IPSEA. I have developed a wealth of legal knowledge and confidence, and I enjoy being assertive when necessary with local authorities! 

 

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