Who we are

Cheryl has been with the service for several years and is the main contact for the Local Authorities Dispute Resolution Service (DRS), and for statutory assessment (EHC) support.  She has a degree in social science but has a specific interest in special educational law, with legal training to advanced bar accredited level. In addition, she is qualified to teach adult learners and hosts our parent/ professionals training. Cheryl is mother to a teenage son who has an EHC Plan and additional needs. 

Nan is new to the IAS team, but not new to Bolton Parents! Nan is the current chair of the local parent carer forum, and has a wealth of knowledge and experience about the difficuties that parent carers face. Mum to a young person with SEND, Nan is legally  trained to IPSEA level 2, working toward full bar accreditation, and will be working with the team part time so that she can continue with her forum duties too. Nan will continue to co-host training for parents and carers with Cheryl.

IAS Officer and AMITY mentor for young people

Mike has been with the service for many years and has a great deal of expertise in working with families and young people with both SEND and emotional health needs. Mike has full IPSEA level 3 legal (bar accredited). He is also a qualified counsellor and works in schools around Bolton offering 1:1 support to young people. Mike is also an IAS Officer with an interest in mentoring young people. He is also a father to an adult son with a disability.  

Nicola is the longest serving member of staff and has years of experience with supporting children and families with SEND. Having previously been the head of service, Nicola has taken retirement from the day to day service, but is still supporting us in a consultancy role from home. Nicola is a mother to a daughter with a disability and has extensive knowledge in specific conditions affecting children and young people. 

Karen is legally trained at IPSEA level 2, and is working toward full bar accreditation. A qualified teacher,  Karen has a wealth of experience in Education, having worked in the sector for 38 years. This included schools for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs, and SEN provision for children with moderate learning difficulties and complex needs. Karen currently works Wednesdays and Fridays in IAS.

Karen is also a Trustee at COG. 

IAS YP Outreach worker

Lindsey  is supporting with the ISAP children and young persons consultation activities. She has level 1 legal training and is supporting young people in the settings they choose to attend at evenings and weekends.