The Autism Mums Podcast

Victoria Bennion and Natalie Tealdi
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Parenting

Welcome to The Autism Mums Podcast — a supportive space for parents and carers navigating life with autistic children. We’re your hosts, Victoria and Natalie, two sisters raising autistic children. We know the joy, the overwhelm and the thousand tiny moments no one else quite gets. That’s why we created this podcast - to offer a safe space, a sense of community, and some gentle encouragement along the way. In each episode, we’ll bring you honest conversations, shared strength, and expert insights to support your journey. Whether you're celebrating a win, managing a meltdown, or just trying to get through the day, you’ll find real talk and real understanding here. You can expect mum to mum chats, practical tips, mini solo moments and conversations with experts. Whether you’re new to this journey or deep in the day-to-day, we see you and we’re walking this path with you.

  1. Is School the Only Option? Understanding EOTAS for SEND Families with Lauren Vermeulen

    2d ago

    Is School the Only Option? Understanding EOTAS for SEND Families with Lauren Vermeulen

    If your child is struggling to attend school, you might be wondering what the options are. In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast we welcome back Lauren Vermeulen from Victory-us to talk about EOTAS (Education Otherwise Than At or In School). BiographyLauren is the founder of Victory-us, an independent SEND Teacher - supporting, empowering and providing EOTAS to send children. Lauren has taught in a variety of schools and SEND provisions, leading emotional regulation, behaviour support trainings and PSHE. She has expertise in supporting children with bespoke and tailored learning and mental health support, to ensure children flourish on education otherwise than at school. She now supports children their families who can’t access school and need tailored support. Key TakeawaysEOTAS stands for Education Otherwise Than At or In School. It is specifically for children who hold an EHCP - this is what sets it apart from elective home education. When a child has an EHCP and cannot be educated in a school setting, the responsibility for funding and meeting that child's needs sits with the local authority, not the parent.EOTAS is not the same as home education. If your child has an EHCP and you are educating them at home, the local authority still has a legal duty of care - and that includes funding. The LA must ensure all of Section F is being met.Getting EOTAS agreed can be a lengthy process. Local authorities are required to work through a list of provisions under Section 61 before EOTAS can be agreed - from mainstream, to resource bases, to specialist and independent schools, to online provision. This is why having a well-written EHCP that accurately reflects your child's needs is so important from the start.EOTAS is not just a tutor. A proper EOTAS package should address all of Section F - educational, health, and care needs. Emotional regulation, OT, SALT, therapy, and community access can all be part of the package, not just academic learning.Positive evidence matters. When building a case for EOTAS, it's not just about what isn't working - it's about evidencing what does. Is your child engaging with an online platform? A tutor? An activity based on their special interest? All of this counts.Section 19 is a different but related route. If your child cannot attend school for health reasons (including emotional school-based avoidance), and has had 15 or more consecutive days out of school, Section 19 may apply - even without an EHCP. It's intended to be temporary, but it can be a valuable window to collect evidence of what works.The goal of EOTAS is holistic, not just academic. Lauren challenges the idea that education means the national curriculum. Life skills, emotional regulation, self-advocacy, sensory needs, and community access are all valid - and essential - parts of a child's education.EOTAS can and should be reviewed regularly. Families should expect six-weekly check-ins with the LA, as well as annual review. If the LA identifies a school placement, parents are not obligated to accept it - as long as they can evidence why it would be less suitable than the current provision.You don't have to figure out the package alone. Lauren works with families to design bespoke EOTAS packages built around the child's interests, needs, and outcomes - starting with what the child loves and working backwards from there. Mentioned in This EpisodeMindJam — Emotional and SEN support for young people through gaming, game design and digital skills Kiwi STEM Boxes — subscription-based learning activity boxes referenced in the context of EOTAS packages Lisa Lloyd - ASD with a G&T Connect with LaurenBook a free 30 minute call with Lauren via the Calendly link on the bottom right-hand side of her website. Website: www.victory-us.co.uk Instagram: @victoryus.lv Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums Follow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmums

    30 min
  2. Your Child's EHCP Isn't Being Followed - Here's What to Do with Lauren Vermeulen

    Jun 23

    Your Child's EHCP Isn't Being Followed - Here's What to Do with Lauren Vermeulen

    If you've ever felt like your child's Education, Health and Care Plan isn't being properly implemented this episode is for you. In this episode, we're joined by specialist SEND teacher and advocate Lauren Vermeulen, founder of Victory-Us, to break down exactly what parents can do when a school isn't following an EHCP. BiographyLauren is the founder of Victory-us, an independent SEND Teacher - supporting, empowering and providing EOTAS to send children. Lauren has taught in a variety of schools and SEND provisions, leading emotional regulation, behaviour support trainings and PSHE. She has expertise in supporting children with bespoke and tailored learning and mental health support, to ensure children flourish on education otherwise than at school. She now supports children their families who can’t access school and need tailored support. Key TakeawaysAn EHCP is a legal document - the provision written into Section F must be delivered by the schoolIf you suspect the EHCP isn't being followed, your first step is to request a meeting with the SENCo and highlight specifically what is missing from Section FSchools receive funding to implement the EHCP - if they say they don't have the resources, a cost of provision can be requestedIf the issue isn't resolved, you can request an emergency annual review and involve the Local AuthoritySection E (outcomes) should be reviewed at every annual review and should directly link to the provision in Section F - if they don't reflect your child's current needs, you can request amendmentsAn EHCP covers education, health, and care - if sensory needs, emotional regulation, or health provisions are being missed, that matters, even if your child appears to be meeting academic targetsYou don't need to be an expert to advocate - you know your child best, and it is not your responsibility to spell out how provision should be delivered, that's the school's jobFree support is available via organisations like IPSEA if you need help navigating the process Mentioned in This EpisodeIPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) — free legal advice for families: www.ipsea.org.uk Connect with LaurenBook a free 30 minute call with Lauren via the Calendly link on the bottom right-hand side of her website. Website: www.victory-us.co.uk Instagram: @victoryus.lv Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums Follow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmums

    23 min
  3. ADHD Explained: Signs, Diagnosis & Real Life

    Jun 16

    ADHD Explained: Signs, Diagnosis & Real Life

    In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast, we’re talking about ADHD — what it is, how it’s diagnosed in the UK, the traits parents might notice, and how it can interact with autism in real life. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention regulation, impulse control and activity levels. But beyond the clinical definitions from the NHS and NICE guidance, ADHD is lived — in busy mornings, movement breaks, emotional intensity, creativity and exhaustion. We explore: What the NHS and NICE say about ADHDHow ADHD is assessed and diagnosed in the UKThe signs of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivityWhy ADHD is often misunderstood as “bad behaviour”How ADHD and autism can co‑occurPractical support strategies at home and school We also share our own lived experience navigating assessment, waiting lists and day‑to‑day life because understanding the guidance is one thing, but living it is another. Key TakeawaysADHD is neurodevelopmental not a parenting issue. It begins in childhood and relates to how the brain develops and functions. It is not caused by poor discipline or “naughtiness.” Diagnosis in the UK requires a full specialist assessment. ADHD cannot be diagnosed through a single questionnaire or short GP appointment. It involves developmental history, school input and evidence of impairment across settings. Symptoms fall into three main areas. Inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity — though children may present with a combination, and hyperactivity isn’t always physical. ADHD and autism often co‑occur. Executive functioning challenges, sensory needs, routine preferences and impulsivity can interact in complex ways, making everyday life feel layered and exhausting. ADHD also comes with strengths. Creativity, passion, humour, curiosity and energy are often part of the picture. Mentioned in This EpisodeNHS NICE YoungMinds ADHD Foundation Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums Follow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmums Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums

    12 min
  4. What is Autism? We're Talking About It

    Jun 9

    What is Autism? We're Talking About It

    In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast we're going back to basics and talking about what autism actually is. We cover what autism is and what it isn't, why the word 'spectrum' is so widely misunderstood, and what it can feel like to hear that word applied to your child for the first time. We also get into some of the phrases that drive every autism parent quietly up the wall and why they matter more than people realise. Key TakeawaysAutism is a neurodevelopmental difference - it's about how the brain develops and processes information. It's present from birth and it's lifelong.The spectrum isn't a straight line. It's more like a colour spectrum - a profile of different strengths, challenges, sensitivities, and support needs that looks different in every person.Social communication differences don't mean autistic people don't want connection. They mean they may communicate and connect differently.Repetitive behaviours, strong special interests, a need for predictability, and sensory differences are all part of how autism can present and they can look very different from one child to the next.Autism can co-occur with anxiety, ADHD, or learning disabilities but autism itself is a neurotype, not an illness.'We're all a little bit autistic' is well-meaning but misleading. Being autistic means having a distinct, lifelong neurological framework and phrases like this risk minimising the real challenges many autistic people and their families face.'They don't look autistic.' What people often can't see is the masking, the mental exhaustion, and the cost of holding it together.A diagnosis can bring fear and grief but also relief and validation. Many parents describe a shift from panic to advocacy — from 'what is this?' to 'what can I do?'Support needs vary widely and can change across different life stages. What works in primary school may not be enough in secondary. Support isn't static. Mentioned in This EpisodeNational Autistic Society -www.autism.org.uk Autistic UK www.autisticuk.org NHS - Autism overview and diagnosis pathways: www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums Follow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmums Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums

    18 min
  5. SEND Reform UK: Rights at Risk?

    Jun 2

    SEND Reform UK: Rights at Risk?

    In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast we're talking about the proposed SEND Reforms 2026 and what they could mean for families across the UK. The Government says the changes aim to make mainstream schools more inclusive, reduce EHCP numbers, and introduce new “layers” of support but many parents are concerned about what this could mean for legal protections, specialist provision, and access to support. After attending a local community meeting with our MP and submitting our own consultation response as parents, we share the common themes, key concerns, and the questions that still remain unanswered. This isn’t about resisting reform, it’s about making sure reform strengthens the system, and doesn't weaken children’s rights. Key TakeawaysEHCP access could change significantly.Proposals suggest EHCPs may eventually be reserved for children with “the most complex needs” but there is currently no clear definition of what that means.Specialist Provision Packages (SPPs) may replace detailed individual plans.This risks shifting from a needs‑led system to a more standardised, package‑based approach.Legal enforceability is a major concern.If support moves from Section F of an EHCP into Individual Support Plans (ISPs), it may not carry the same legal protection.Mainstream inclusion requires real resources.Training, inclusion bases and expert advice sound positive but without more educational psychologists, therapists and specialist teachers, implementation may fall short.Need must drive provision — not budgets or system design.Reform can only succeed if it strengthens accountability, preserves rights, and ensures support is delivered in practice. Mentioned in This EpisodeMichael Charles' Facebook page Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums Follow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmums Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums

    15 min
  6. Puberty, Periods and Neurodivergent Kids with Cath Hakanson

    May 26

    Puberty, Periods and Neurodivergent Kids with Cath Hakanson

    Puberty is a long season of change and for neurodivergent children, that can feel especially overwhelming. In this episode, Victoria and Natalie are joined by Cath Hakanson, sex educator and founder of Sex Ed Rescue, who shares practical, reassuring guidance on talking to autistic and ADHD kids about puberty, bodies, and growing up. Cath is late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD herself, and brings both professional expertise and lived experience to the conversation. About Cath HakansonCath Hakanson is a clinical sexuality educator, registered nurse, and founder of Sex Ed Rescue, a global platform that has supported over a million families with honest, shame-free sex education. With more than 25 years of clinical experience spanning sexual health nursing, sex therapy, and health promotion, Cath has made it her mission to help parents have the conversations they were never taught to have. Late-diagnosed AuDHD herself and a parent of neurodivergent kids, she brings both expertise and lived experience to her work. Her approach is simple, factual, and built for real family life, neurospicy or otherwise. Key TakeawaysStart early and keep it small. Introducing puberty from age four or five through books, casual comments, and everyday moments which means it's never one huge overwhelming conversation.Puberty isn't necessarily different for neurodivergent kids, but the way they experience and process it often is. Sensory sensitivities around hygiene routines, body hair, and discharge can all create friction.Before you problem-solve, ask. The single most useful thing you can do is ask your child what's getting in the way, the answer might surprise you.Small, natural, low-pressure conversations, once a month, in the car, over a TV show, are far more effective and keep the door open for questions as they grow.Hormones can hit differently with a neurodivergent nervous system. Helping your child understand why their emotions might feel more intense during puberty is part of the conversation too.It's never too late to start. Whether your child is four or eighteen, beginning the conversation now is always better than not beginning it at all. Mentioned in This EpisodeCath's Top Ten Sex Education Books - https://sexedrescue.com/sex-education-books Hair in Funny Places by Babette Cole https://babette-cole.com/10550-2/ AUsome — Autistic-led neurodiversity training - https://ausometraining.com Free Guide: Sex Education for Neurodivergent Kids - For parents of autistic and ADHD kids who want a clearer way to approach sex ed without making it feel bigger or harder than it needs to be. https://sexedrescue.com/neuroaffirmingsexed Connect with CathWebsite: https://sexedrescue.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cathhakanson Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums Follow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmums

    31 min
  7. EBSA & Autism: School Avoidance Isn’t Defiance with Caroline Sutton

    May 19

    EBSA & Autism: School Avoidance Isn’t Defiance with Caroline Sutton

    In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast Natalie is joined by psychotherapist, author and former NHS specialist nurse Caroline Sutton to talk about Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) and why so many neurodivergent children experience school as overwhelming or unsafe. When a child can’t go to school, it’s rarely about defiance. Caroline shares over 37 years of professional experience supporting children and families, alongside her lived experience as a neurodivergent parent. Together, we explore the emotional and neurological roots of school anxiety and why traditional behaviour-based approaches often make things worse. If you’ve ever been told to “just make home less appealing” or that your child is being manipulative, we hope this conversation will feel validating, hopeful and reassuring. BiographyCaroline Sutton is a psychotherapist, author, and former NHS specialist nurse with over 37 years of experience supporting children and families. Drawing on her professional background and her lived experience as a neurodivergent parent, she brings a deeply compassionate approach to understanding emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA) and anxiety in young people. Through her private practice, writing, and public speaking, Caroline helps parents and professionals see beyond behaviour to the emotional and neurological roots of distress. Her work blends clinical insight with personal understanding, empowering families to rebuild safety, trust, and hope in education and at home. Key TakeawaysWhat Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) really means Why school avoidance is not the same as defiance The link between autism, ADHD, anxiety and burnout How the nervous system responds when school feels unsafe Why forcing attendance can increase distress Signs your child may be heading toward burnout How to balance encouragement with emotional safety Supporting transitions back to school after holidays The importance of compassion for parents navigating EBSA Mentioned in This Episode📘 A Compassionate Approach to School Anxiety by Caroline Sutton Ebook Paperback 🎁 Free Download: Caroline’s Return to School Checklist 👥 Caroline’s private Facebook membership for parents Connect with Caroline SuttonInstagram Website Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums

    23 min
  8. Understanding Sensory Differences in Autism

    May 12

    Understanding Sensory Differences in Autism

    Sensory differences affect up to 95% of autistic people, yet they’re often misunderstood as “fussy” behaviour or being dramatic. In this episode, we break down what sensory processing really is. Key Takeaways The 8 sensory systems (not just the 5 you learned at school)Hypersensitivity vs hyposensitivitySensory defensivenessWhy supermarkets, lunch halls, hand dryers and clothing can feel unbearableHow sensory overload impacts eating, sleep, learning and behaviourPractical strategies for calming, alerting and organising regulation We also share personal examples from our own families and discuss how to support sensory needs at home and in school, with curiosity, compassion and less shame. Because behaviour is communication and regulation matters more than compliance. Mentioned in This EpisodeThe National Autistic Society Beat Eating Disorders Loop earplugs Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums

    33 min
See All (67)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Autism Mums Podcast — a supportive space for parents and carers navigating life with autistic children. We’re your hosts, Victoria and Natalie, two sisters raising autistic children. We know the joy, the overwhelm and the thousand tiny moments no one else quite gets. That’s why we created this podcast - to offer a safe space, a sense of community, and some gentle encouragement along the way. In each episode, we’ll bring you honest conversations, shared strength, and expert insights to support your journey. Whether you're celebrating a win, managing a meltdown, or just trying to get through the day, you’ll find real talk and real understanding here. You can expect mum to mum chats, practical tips, mini solo moments and conversations with experts. Whether you’re new to this journey or deep in the day-to-day, we see you and we’re walking this path with you.

Information

  • Creator
    Victoria Bennion and Natalie Tealdi
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    67
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Victoria Bennion and Natalie Tealdi
  • Show Website
    The Autism Mums Podcast

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