Earlier today I dropped by the Amaze Info Fair being held at Brighthelm.

Amaze are a great local charity supporting families with children who have special educational needs and disabilities.

Events like the information fair today provide an opportunity for parent carers to share experiences, and to speak directly to local services and organisations able to offer practical support and guidance.

Also at the event was children’s author, Julia Donaldson – creator of the amazing Gruffalo – a book which brilliantly embraces conquering fear. Whether fear is imagined or real, it’s something we all experience at times – irrespective of how big or small we might feel.

That’s part of the wonderful work Amaze do – supporting families when they are faced with what, at the outset, might feel like a daunting situation. They give people a voice; build resilience; and reduce the fear and isolation that families face.

I was delighted to be asked to present the Parent Carers’ Council Champion awards. They are voted for by parent carers, to recognise professionals or volunteers who have who have gone above and beyond to support families with disabled children.

I know from the case work I receive, and the constituents I speak to at my weekly surgeries, that support and advice from organisations like Amaze is often invaluable. It was humbling and inspiring to be able to drop by and speak to some of those doing such amazing work locally.