Sen Mamas

Together, in a powerful bond of sisterhood and community, we uplift SEND families, unlock potential, and ensure our voices are heard.

What We Do

The SEN MAMAS project exists to support mothers at the intersection of race, disability, and motherhood. Our work is both practical and systemic:Black SEN Mamas was founded by Marsha Martin a neurodivergent, autistic and ADHD mother of three, and former behavioural therapist. Frustrated by systemic barriers and racial disparities in SEND support, she created a safe space where mothers like her could access culturally competent advocacy, mental health support, and community.

What began as peer-led conversations has grown into a thriving network of over 6,000 mothers across the UK and beyond.

Direct Support

  • From counselling to childcare, we ensure mothers are not alone.

Advocacy & Legal Intervention

  • We fight for fair access to education and healthcare.

Community Building

  • We create safe spaces where belonging is the norm.

Policy Influence

  • We amplify our voices through reports, research, and Parliament engagement.

Cultural Competence Training

  • We educate teachers, social workers, NHS staff and beyond.

Everything we do is co-produced with SEN Mamas – because we believe those most impacted must also lead the change.

Our advocacy extends beyond services:   we tell our stories, authentically and on our own terms.

Our projects include:

Resources

We curate tools, guides, and practical resources to support Black SEND families.

Downloadable EHCP guidance

Self-care & wellbeing toolkits.

SEND glossary for parents and professionals.

Policy submissions and research reports.

Video explainers and lived experience stories.

Directory of Support

Explore trusted organisations and services for SEND families.

Education & Legal Support

Therapists & Counsellors

Social Care & Housing

Local Support Groups

Research & Policy Organisations

This growing directory connects mothers with the wider ecosystem of support, both Black-led and mainstream, that can make a difference.

Glossary – Jargon Buster

Navigating the SEND world often means learning a whole new language. We’ve simplified the key terms:

  • SEND: Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
  • ND: Neurodivergent/neurodiversity.
  • EHCP: Education, Health and Care Plan – a legal document securing provision.
  • SENCO: Special Educational Needs Coordinator in schools.
  • PRU: Pupil Referral Unit — an alternative provision school.
  • SLT / SALT: Speech and Language Therapy.
  • OT: Occupational Therapy.
  • CAMHS: Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.

Contact Us

We’d love to hear from you. Whether you are a parent seeking support, a professional looking to collaborate, or a potential ally — get in touch.