Our team of experts are here to help
Get support 24/7, with our award-winning support network of SENDIASS advisors and specialists.
Meet Our Team
Sarah Duncan
SENDIASS Co-ordinator
Lead coordinator for the Gateshead SENDIASS service.
Leandra Barkley
Operations Co-ordinator
Provides operational and administrative coordination to support the effective delivery of the SENDIASS service.
Beverly Thornton
SENDIASS Officer
Expert officer supporting families through the SEND process.
Laura Kelley
Project Worker
Expert officer supporting families through the SEND process.
Our Volunteers
Alongside the core SENDIASS team, Gateshead benefits from a small network of trained volunteers.
They give their time to support local families and young people and add extra capacity to the service.
Many of our volunteers have personal or professional experience of SEND \u2013 for example through working in education or by caring for a child or young person with additional needs. They receive training and ongoing support from the SENDIASS team.
What volunteers can do
Depending on their training and experience, volunteers may:
- Help parents, carers or young people understand letters and reports
- Support families to prepare for meetings by thinking through questions and key points
- Attend some meetings alongside a parent or young person to provide practical support
- Encourage families to feel confident in expressing their views and taking part in decisions
Want to volunteer?
If you are interested in volunteering with Gateshead SENDIASS, please contact us to find out more about current opportunities and training.
Office hours
Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm