Joanna Elliott

I’ve had the pleasure of helping to run the group for over 15 years. I’m a nursery nurse and have always worked with children, so the group felt like a natural fit — especially as my older sister, Catherine, had Down syndrome.

Growing up with additional needs as part of everyday family life gave me a deep understanding and a lifelong commitment to inclusion and support.

I’m married to Matthew, and we have three adult children: Flo, Bea, and Nick. Since 2020, I’ve also been a foster carer for Surrey County Council, offering emergency, short-term, and respite care.

Emma

Hi, I’m Emma. I’ve been part of the Last Wednesday group since I first heard about it in 2010.

I’m a disabled parent with two children who have additional needs. My eldest has a global learning disability and ADHD. They had a statement, then an EHCP from middle school onwards, and then attended a specialist secondary school for moderate learning disabilities.

My younger child is Autistic and attends a mainstream school, but struggles and has experienced periods of non-attendance due to their needs not being met.

Vanessa

Hello, I’m Vanessa. I’m a mum of three young people, two of whom have additional needs. My son has a genetic condition, is Autistic, and has learning difficulties. One of my daughters is also Autistic and has ADD.

I first came along to the Last Wednesday group when my son was five and not yet diagnosed. The support I received helped me navigate the process of getting a diagnosis, securing an EHCP, and finding the specialist school that’s been such a good fit for him.

My other child went through mainstream school but found it extremely difficult throughout.

I’ve been helping to run the group for the past few years, and I really look forward to welcoming you to one of our sessions.

Jane

Hi, I’m Jane. I’m an adoptive mum of two children, one of whom has additional needs. My background is in communication, advertising, and marketing. I’ve been attending the group for around seven years now, and it’s been a huge source of support for me – a real community.