Monday 3 November 2025
Every Shoe Tells a Story…
What a powerful, peaceful statement created by parents and carers to show the scale of the SEND crisis throughout the UK. Over 90 Local Authorities took part each led by volunteer parents who laid out pairs of children’s shoes to represent those who have been failed by the education system. Every shoe told a story of a child who has waited too long for an assessment, been denied an assessment, been left without a school place or struggled without the support they need to thrive affecting confidence, achievement and reducing positive life outcomes. This was not about anger this was parents standing shoulder to shoulder, visibility, compassion and truth. This is what love, strength and unity looks like.
If you are a parent or carer of a child who has special educational needs and disabilities and/or if you placed a shoe today, maybe you find yourself somewhere within the system, perhaps feeling exhausted, lost, isolated, hurt, confused, angry, ignored and even shamed, please reach out today to Trust Counselling South West who is here to support you so you are not alone. Your voice, thoughts, feelings and wellbeing matters. It really can help to talk to a qualified, empathic, non judgemental Counsellor.
Other sources of support
www.plymouthias.org.uk Plymouth Information Advice and Support for Send
www.ipsea.org.uk Independent Provider of Special Educational Advice
www.sossen.org.uk SOS!SEN Independent helpline for Special Education
1 November 2025 - Autumn Thoughts…
As we move through Autumn noticing the changes around us, the gorgeous vibrant colours, crunchy leaves, cooler air, berries, conkers, acorns and busy squirrels building their food stores, it may prompt reflection on our lives.
What has happened, is happening and what lies ahead? Can we take protective action like the squirrels to kindly care for ourselves?
As we reflect, we may notice a multitude of emotions, perhaps regret for times past or frustration at missed opportunities. Maybe sorrow and grief for loved ones lost, thankfulness for those we have, gratitude for or worry about a current health or circumstance, anxiety or anticipation of what is ahead – the unknown, the what ifs…
Wherever you are and whatever has happened and still is to happen, it can be releasing and helpful to talk to an impartial, empathic, non judgemental Counsellor.
There is power in being truly heard.
National Adoption Week 20-26 October 2025
Recognising the Joys and Challenges of Adoption
This year, Adoption England is leading a heartfelt campaign that reminds us: just like all parenting, adoption can be messy and difficult, but it’s also joyful and rewarding beyond measure.
👉 Learn more: www.adoptionengland.co.uk/news/national-adoptionweek-2025
Follow You Can Adopt on Facebook and Instagram to join the conversation and see real stories from adoptive families.
Explore and Learn: Webinars and Events
Adoption England are hosting a two-part webinar series for anyone considering adoption. The sessions explore how children and families are linked and matched, offering insight at any stage of the adoption journey.
🔗 Find out more and register here.
On behalf of Adoption England, Adoption UK is offering a series of free online sessions covering key topics such as physical and mental health, finances, identity, and support networks. These sessions provide practical information and space to ask questions—whether you’re just beginning to explore adoption or already in the process.
🔗 Learn more: www.adoptionuk.org
PAC-UK is also running a series of free online and in-person events that bring together adopted people, birth parents, and adoptive parents. Their discussions will explore themes of family, belonging, trauma, and identity—creating opportunities to hear from people with lived experience and professionals in the field.
🔗 Visit: www.pac-uk.org
Counselling Support for Every Stage of the Adoption Journey
Trust Counselling South West understands that the adoption process is complex—sometimes stressful and always emotional. Whether you are considering adoption, preparing, or already an adoptive parent, foster carer, special guardian, or kinship carer, talking to a qualified, empathic, and non-judgemental counsellor can make a real difference. Adoption can raise many questions—some expected, others surprising. Emotions and thoughts can build up if left unspoken, sometimes leading to difficulties further down the line. If you recognise yourself in this, please know: you don’t have to face it alone.
All parents experience stresses and strains, and adoptive parenting brings unique challenges and joys. Trust Counselling South West recognises the courage, strengths, and responsibilities you carry in your unique role. If you are struggling—perhaps feeling overwhelmed, locked in difficult thought patterns, or simply in need of a safe space to reflect—please reach out. You’ll be met with warmth, empathy, and understanding from a qualified, trauma-informed counsellor who will truly listen.
With Gratitude
During this National Adoption Week, thank you to all who open their hearts and homes through adoption, fostering and kinship care, bringing love, hope and stability to a child who has experienced trauma.
Trust Counselling South West is here for you, just as you are there for others. 💛
