Wendy O'Carroll - Independent Sen Consultant And Support

I am an Independent SEN Consultant specialising in the support of both families and professionals involved with children who have Down Syndrome.

I spend much of my time supporting parents and enabling their successful navigation through the hazards encountered with EHCPs, DLA and PIP applications. I can assist with appeals to reverse decisions and provide both background support and representation at Tribunals, also mediating with the Local Authority in an effort to avoid tribunal altogether. - I have never lost a case yet!
I founded the charity Ups and Downs Southwest after the birth of my son Oliver in 1996 but stepped down from my role as Chief Executive Officer in July 2016 after 20 years in the charity sector supporting parents and professionals across the UK.
An accomplished speaker, I provide motivational and informative lectures /presentations and training to large and small groups of professionals involved in education, social care, and healthcare, as well as to groups and organisations within the voluntary sector, and of course to large and small groups of parents, the general public, schools and colleges etc.
Topics covered include all aspects of Down Syndrome, parenting a child with a disability, how to overcome poor expectations, Oliver's journey, the critical importance of our society learning to truly value and enjoy difference, and how a positive and enthusiastic attitude can change lives. I have spoken at Westminster and could describe myself as an experienced keynote speaker as well as providing 'after dinner' speaking to a variety of groups and organisations. I am quite renowned for my straight talking (! ! ) and cheery optimistic disposition and have a real and genuine determination to instigate and encourage positive awareness in a way which audiences find both memorable and entertaining. : )