Parent Support Groups

Kent PACT is the official parent-carer forum for parents of children and young people with SEND in Kent. Run by parents, for parents — they work with Kent County Council to ensure parent voices are heard in SEND decisions. Offers support, signposting, and connects families to services. A must-join for any Kent SEND parent.

Informal support groups for parents and carers run by Space 2 Be Me. Most frequently supports with concerns around autism, ADHD, PDA and anxiety, but all parents and carers of disabled children are welcome. Groups are informal — attend regularly or just drop in when you need support. Available during term time.

Kent County Council's Family Hubs provide support for families with children 0–19 (or 25 with SEND). Includes parenting courses, family support, health visiting, and connections to SEND services. Many hubs run parent support groups and toddler groups that are inclusive of children with additional needs. Find your nearest hub.

After an autism diagnosis, parents are invited to attend a parent strategy group (parents only) where advice and support is given with information about medication considerations and things to consider. Run by Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust as part of their neurodiversity pathway. A valuable source of post-diagnosis support.

Free online and in-person parenting courses available to parents in Kent and Medway. The Solihull Approach helps parents understand children's behaviour and emotional development. Particularly useful for parents of children with additional needs. Courses cover understanding behaviour, emotions, and building relationships.

Supports children and young people's mental health and emotional wellbeing in Kent. Offers the Compass Programme — a wellbeing programme for young people aged 11–18 using Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) principles, delivered through Kent County Council Family Hubs. Also provides resources and support for parents concerned about their child's mental health.