Our People
Participation Team
I’m really looking forward to speaking to as many of you as possible and hearing about your experiences – challenges and success stories, so that I can feedback to Surrey County Council and help them shape policies, processes and procedures to improve the Send journey of parent careers and meet the needs of children with disabilities.
Previously…
Prior to this, I have worked in HR, specialising in Employment Law for almost 20 years. Throughout my career, I have gained lots of transferable skills to bring to the Participation Manager role and I’m so excited to be working for such a wonderful charity, in a subject that I’m so passionate about. I’m determined, organised and honest.
My Family…
I’m married to Jonathan and have two beautiful children. A five year-old son who is autistic and non-verbal and a four year-old little girl who starts school in September. Although the age gap keeps me on my toes, it took nine rounds of IVF to bring us our much wanted son, and our daughter was a wonderful, natural, surprise five months later! To this day, sometimes when I look at them, I still can’t believe they are ours and will never forget how lucky we are to have them.
I know first-hand how daunting, demanding and overwhelming /frustrating trying to navigate the system and finding the help and support you need for your child and family can be. My aim is to listen, learn and speak up for families to help others fully understand these challenges and how they can make life easier for families and children with disabilities.
Hobbies and Interests…
I love travelling – when we get a chance of course. I also like to run…mainly because I love chocolate! Most of all I love a good movie and spending quality time with family, friends and dig Pepper
What does my working week look like?
I’d love to hear from you, so please drop me an email. I’m working part-time, from September, and my core hours will be Mon-Thurs 10am-2pm term-time, so although I may not be able to respond straight away, I will always come back to you as soon as possible.
leanne.h@familyvoicesurrey.org
What is your SEND experience?
I have both personal and professional experience of SEND. I am a parent of two children, both of whom are Autistic and have ADHD and my youngest also has a PDA profile. I have learnt so much (and am still learning!) about the SEND system, and how to access support from different services. Professionally I have experience of working with children and their families with additional needs, I am a qualified early years teacher and through my previous role of managing a day nursery for children under 5 years old, I was also the SENCO there. As SENCO I worked closely with many children, and I was involved in many multi professional discussions, and inputted into the old statementing system (Now EHCP’s) I absolutely loved working with families and being part of their journey.
What do you bring to your role?
I bring endless passion and enthusiasm and determination to do all that I can to ensure families are heard and understood. My own experiences both professionally and personally allow me to fully appreciate the challenges families face.
What is your family life like?
Family life is never dull in our house! Having two young people with additional needs has its challenges but also has huge rewards seeing what they achieve and overcome.
What does your working week look like?
I work 16 hours per week Monday to Thursday 10am-2pm term time only.
Do you have any hobbies?
I love going for long walks with our dog, and enjoy horse riding.
woking@familyvoicesurrey.org