Recent News

Welcome to the news and blog page of the Bedford Borough Parent Carer Forum (BBPCF) - a dedicated space for updates, insights, and resources for parent carers of children and young people with SEND in Bedford.

Stay informed about the latest developments in SEND services in Bedford Borough, local policies, and initiatives that impact families in our community.

Real stories, real impact

At BBPCF, we believe in the power of lived experiences. Our blog features:

Parent carer stories – Real experiences, challenges, and successes
Tips & advice – Practical guidance from experts and fellow parents
Campaigns & advocacy – How we’re making a difference in Bedford Borough

Navigating Change With The Boy

“The Boy” is 21 and lives with autism, ADHD, severe learning disabilities and sensory processing differences. In this blog, his parent shares the ups and downs of navigating big life transitions — from leaving school and starting college to moving from children’s to adult services. A heartfelt and honest look at the challenges, the progress, and the importance of preparation and support.

Understanding Sensory Needs: Supporting Children in Education and Everyday Life

Children experience the world through their senses — for some this is smooth, for others overwhelming. Our new blog explores how sensory needs affect learning, daily life, and family routines, with tips on creating supportive environments that help children feel safe, included, and understood.

Parent Carer Lived Experience: Fostering, SEN, and the Learning Curve of a Lifetime

Becoming foster carers opened our eyes to the reality of SEN. What started as judgment from the sidelines turned into a crash course in ADHD, autism, trauma, and endless battles for support. Even with training and confidence, navigating EHCPs and underfunded schools was overwhelming. It’s tough, exhausting, and emotional — but these children deserve every fight. And yes, we’d do it all again.

The Power of Asking for Help: A Parent Carer's Journey Through Advocacy, Frustration, and Family Time

Being a parent carer means navigating systems, advocating, and holding on through exhaustion. I’ve learned that asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival. And protecting family time isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. If you’re on this journey, know you’re not alone. Your voice matters. Your child matters. And together, we are stronger.

“Our children deserve more than just support; they deserve aspiration. They deserve lives filled with purpose, hope, and the opportunity to thrive socially, academically, and in good health. Too often, systems and attitudes place invisible limits on what children with additional needs are expected to achieve.

Raising Aspirations: Thriving, Not Just Surviving, for Our Children with Additional Needs

“Our children deserve more than just support; they deserve aspiration. They deserve lives filled with purpose, hope, and the opportunity to thrive socially, academically, and in good health. Too often, systems and attitudes place invisible limits on what children with additional needs are expected to achieve. But what if we started with the belief that they can? That they will, given the right environment, encouragement, and respect?”

Community Awareness and Acceptance of SEND: A Positive Approach

Embracing SEND awareness builds inclusive communities where everyone feels valued

Valuing Parenting

Parenting a child with additional needs is a journey of love, resilience, and growth. Embrace connection, self-care, and advocacy to thrive.

Newsletters

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Kickstart the New School Year 2025 with the Latest BBPCF Newsletter

Summer 2025 Newsletter - We’ve moved from monthly to termly updates—welcome to our Summer 2025 Newsletter!

June Newsletter - Stay connected, informed, and supported with the latest from BBPCF – your voice in the Bedford Borough SEND community