We’ve reached 500 signatures — in under two weeks. 💛

I honestly didn’t expect this to grow the way it has, but it’s clear this is something so many families recognise.

As a result of how fast this petition has moved, and because of the heart breaking stories I’ve been sent - I have decided that those of us who are here because of selective mutism - need our own space to share tips, knowledge and ideas for change. For those of you that found this petition because you care about someone with selective mutism - I invite you to join the new Facebook group: West Sussex Selective Mutism Support Hub.

Within the group, I have published the change id like to see and the ideas I will present to councilors, I invite you to add to this to make your voice heard. 

Also within the group - I have started a working document of useful links, I also hope this will grow. You’re very welcome to take a look and see if it would help you, I’d love to learn what else could help and keep adding to this - together. The links include free training, books, games, websites and more.

Through this petition  I’ve spoken to some wonderful parents and our stories are so similar. It would be great to network, learn together and work towards change - together. I hope to see you in the group 💛

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1C2XU6ihao/?mibextid=wwXIfr

I also don’t want to forget those who found this petition due  to their child being refused anxiety support because they are autistic. My current recommendations for change are; 

 • Make it clear that anxiety support should not be refused due to autism - professionals to be formally reminded that this is against NICE guidelines. 

 • Ensure anxiety programmes don’t exclude autistic children, for example Thought-ful  (or adapt them if needed)

 • Introduce anxiety care plans in all schools including what the known triggers are and reasonable adjustments. Review with parents. 

• Increase Elsa support and availability  in schools. (Emotional literacy support assistant) 

You can suggest more by adding a comment to this petition. Every voice should be heard. 

Thank you for every signature, every share, every message.

500 signatures in under two weeks is a huge milestone but when this is viewed by WSCC - only west sussex signatures will count - therefore every single local signature matters now - more then ever. Thank you for anything you are doing to increase those 💛