Expert Parent Programme

This programme offers parents a combination of training, e-learning and toolkits to help them navigate the health system.

The Expert Parent Programme began in 2014, supported by research led by the Every Disabled Child Matters campaign which found that parents and carers of disabled children faced numerous barriers in accessing health services and struggled to navigate the health system.

Developed with funding support from the Department of Health (now called Department of Health and Care), from NHS England, and Health Education England, the Expert Parent Programme drew on evidence of the positive impact of parent-led training and empowers parents of disabled children and young people to become more confident and resilient when engaging with health services, and the other services that they come across.

What is the Expert Parent Programme?

The Expert Parent Programme is unique in that it maps out the current health system specifically to the needs of children and young people with special needs or disabilities (diagnosed or un-diagnosed). Through a combination of face-to-face sessions, online modules and web-based resources the programme enables parent carers to better understand and navigate the health system. It provides them with knowledge, practical tools and suggestions to increase confidence when meeting professionals – with the aim of enabling them to access and make the most of the system and to ensure the best outcomes for their children and young people.

  • Face-to-Face Training: Central to the Expert Training Programme is the Expert Parent Training Course, a 4-hour training session delivered by experienced parent trainers that develops parents’ knowledge and confidence when dealing with the health system. There is currently one pan-disability or generic workshop, and four bespoke versions.
  • E-learning Modules: The face to face training is supported by a range of e-learning modules.
  • Toolkit of Online Resources: Parents can also access a range of online resources including practical guides to working with health professionals and some downloadable ‘off the shelf’ activities from the Expert Parent workshop itself.