Bridging the Gap for SEND Children at Sherwood Park

Hi, my name is Lisa, and I’m raising funds to support the incredible children at Sherwood Park Primary School’s Special Resource Provision, which provides vital care and education for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). These children, including my son Harvey, face unique challenges, particularly in communication. The right tools could transform their lives, giving them the ability to express themselves, connect with others, and unlock their full potential.

Harvey is 7 years old, has autism (ASD), and is non-verbal. Despite his challenges, he has shown remarkable resilience. He has worked hard to learn Makaton and use Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS) to communicate his needs. Harvey also has a love for reading and an incredible ability to engage with books—his “superpower.” Like every special child, Harvey has untapped potential that deserves to shine.

However, when Harvey isn’t understood, he often becomes frustrated, sometimes resorting to self-harming behaviors out of distress. It’s heartbreaking to see him struggle, especially knowing that access to additional tools like British Sign Language (BSL) or a dedicated communication app could make an extraordinary difference in his life. Unfortunately, Harvey hasn’t been given access to these tools at school, and while the amazing team at Sherwood Park does everything they can, they simply lack the resources to meet every child’s needs.

That’s why I’m reaching out for your help. With your support, we aim to raise £1,000 to purchase two Grid communication apps (£299.99 each) and one additional iPad for the Special Resource Provision. The school already has one iPad, so this would allow at least two children to access these life-changing tools.

These apps will not only enable children like Harvey to express their needs, emotions, and ideas more clearly but will also teach them essential social skills such as taking turns and engaging with their peers. These interactions are critical for building confidence, social bonds, and emotional growth. For children who often feel isolated in a world they struggle to communicate with, these tools offer a lifeline—a chance to connect, thrive, and learn collaboratively.

By equipping Sherwood Park with these resources, we’re not just providing technology; we’re giving children a voice, a means to be understood, and an opportunity to show the world who they truly are. This campaign is about more than just technology—it’s about creating a future where every child can grow, thrive, and feel valued.

Every donation, no matter the size, will help bring us closer to this goal. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of children like Harvey and others in the Special Resource Provision, breaking down barriers and giving them the tools they need to succeed.

Thank you for standing with us, supporting this vital cause, and believing in these incredible children. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to us, and together, we can help create a brighter, more inclusive future for Harvey and his classmates.

21st December 2025 UPDATE!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported us so far! Your incredible generosity has helped us reach our target, allowing the school to purchase essential apps that will give our amazing children a voice. These tools are empowering them to express themselves, communicate, and engage with the world in ways they couldn’t before.

But our work isn’t done. Despite the progress we’ve made, Bexley Borough has failed to provide Harvey with a permanent placement in the specialist setting he desperately needs. This isn’t just about one child—it’s about all the children at Sherwood Park RP who deserve to be heard and supported. Let’s keep fighting, raising awareness, and advocating for their future. Thank you for standing with us and giving these children the voice they deserve.