An opportunity to connect with other parents and carers of Lighthouse Futures Trust student parents, past and present. A caring, social and informal group community safe space.
Our LFT parent and carer peer support group aims to build connections with other parents and carers in similar situations. The group meets monthly in a safe, supportive environment, to share experiences, discuss key issues that are faced daily by our young people, and explore solutions and further support for you and your family.
The sessions are informal and have room for all suggestions and ideas (as well as our own!) for how to support your young people with making friends, being social and independent. Hot and cold drinks and biscuits are provided for those attending in person. Online access is now available for anyone wishing to dial in remotely.
Please note that this group is for parents, carers and guardians of LFT students only. We do not have capacity for young people to also attend at present.
Thursday 25th September 2025
Thursday 16th October 2025
Thursday 13th November 2025
Thursday 11th December 2025
Thursday 15th January 2026
Thursday 12th February 2026
Thursday 12th March 2026
Thursday 23rd April 2026
Thursday 21st May 2026
Thursday 18th June 2026 (social – in person)
Topics and themes that have been popular in previous sessions include: socialising and making friends; living independently; autistic burnout; holidays/home and family life; applying for funding/support; next steps; connecting with other parents; parent/carer support.
Resources
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a parent/carer of a current student/intern at LFT?
Yes you do, however we welcome returning parents/carers whose young people have moved on/graduated.
Can I bring my young person with me?
Unfortunately, we not have space for the young people to be present too.
If I come in person, where will I need to go?
The sessions are held downstairs in the room off reception in Carlton House. If you are attending in person, please sign in at reception, and help yourself to a drink in the kitchen before making your way through.
Can I join remotely?
Yes – the joining link will be made available on the day of the event if you select this option. Please note, for privacy, we request that you dial in from somewhere private, e.g. at home. Sessions are not usually recorded.
I can’t come to this session. Can I find out what was discussed?
Yes of course! Emily will provide an update summary and send it out to all parents and carers.
Do I have to attend all of the sessions?
You are welcome to do so, but you can choose which ones you would like to attend.
Is there parking available for attending in person?
There is very limited parking at Carlton House. There is a car park opposite in the Arndale Arcade (Sainsbury’s) and some on-street parking further up Alma Road.
How will I know what the content of the session will be about?
This will be shared in advance, via email and the LFT Parent Carer Poor Support Group Facebook page.
What kind of things do you talk about in the sessions?
This varies a great deal! often parents and carers request to have a session to focus on a particular topic of importance. Sometimes we have guest speakers. Sometimes we have an ‘open session’ to talk about whatever is on people’s minds at the time.
Is it like group therapy?
It isn’t group therapy, but is an opportunity to feel free to discuss, openly and honestly, the important issues that face parents and carers of people with disabilities. Signposting for counselling, and other services, is available.
Leeds SEND Local Offer Website
Help is at hand.
Carers Leeds – www.carersleeds.org.uk
Samaritans – www.samaritans.org