22/07/2026
Parents are speaking. But are we really listening?
After meeting with another parent recently, I left asking myself one question.
This parent has spent months working with professionals to get the right support for her child. She has attended meetings, shared her concerns and followed every process expected of her.
Several professionals involved in her child’s care believe he needs a specialist school.
Yet, following the school’s recommendation, the Local Authority decided he should remain in mainstream.
Since then, her child has continued to come home with bruises and other concerning incidents.
What I struggle to understand is this…
Why does it sometimes feel like a parent’s voice carries the least weight in decisions about their own child?
Parents are the constant in their child’s life.
They see the meltdowns after school.
They see the anxiety.
They see the bruises, the exhaustion, the emotional impact and everything that happens behind closed doors.
Their voice shouldn’t be an afterthought.
I’m not sharing this to criticise any individual school or professional. I’m sharing it because this is one of many stories I hear from families, and I believe these conversations matter.
Every child deserves to be in an environment where they are safe, understood and able to thrive.
Have you ever felt that your voice wasn’t being heard when making decisions about your child’s education? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments. 💜
