Thisisfolu.co.uk

Category: Charity

  • Why Every Day Is Autism Awareness Day In Our Family

    Today is Autism Awareness Day, and while many will wear blue, share a post, or show support online, I want to share something deeper. For my family — and for countless others — autism awareness isn’t something we celebrate once a year. It’s every single day. It’s the rhythm of our lives, the decisions we make, the love we give, and the battles we face.

    Autism isn’t just something we talk about. In our home, autism has a name: Akintade.

    The Journey to Diagnosis: A Long Road Without a Map

    When Akintade was diagnosed, it didn’t come as a neat package with answers. It came with questions, delays, and heartache. The process of getting him assessed was like walking through molasses — slow, sticky, and frustrating. Long waiting lists. Professionals who didn’t understand. A healthcare system that made us feel like we were asking for too much.

    But as any special needs parent will tell you, getting a diagnosis is only the first hurdle.

    The Battle for Support in a System That’s Not Built for Us

    Once we had a diagnosis, the next battle was accessing meaningful support. Help exists, but it’s buried under red tape, funding cuts, and endless forms. You need to become a part-time lawyer, full-time advocate, and occasional warrior just to secure your child’s basic rights.

    And yet — somehow — I had to keep pushing forward in my career. Yes, I am a high-profile professional. A mother and a woman with a powerful career. But you’d be shocked how often people are surprised by that.

    “How do you do it all?”

    “You mean you still work?”

    As if mothers of children with special needs should disappear from ambition.

    The Stereotypes, the Stares, and the Silence

    There’s the stares from strangers when Akintade is having a sensory moment in public. The chastisement from Government departments when you ask for what your child needs, as though autism only matters if you earn below a certain threshold. The whispers, the side-eyes, the unsolicited advice from people who have never walked in your shoes.

    And in my own ethnic group, the ignorance can be especially painful. I’ve been advised — no, instructed — to visit spiritualists. To “pray it away.” I’ve been told my son’s condition was due to spiritual warfare or ancestral curses. And I’ve been told — more than once — that I’m to blame.

    Families Like Mine Don’t Need Pity. We Need Partnership.

    We need people to understand that autism doesn’t have a “look.” That children like Akintade are not broken. They’re beautifully, uniquely wired. They may speak differently, learn differently, play differently — but they are worthy of love, patience, and celebration.

    And we, as parents, don’t need pity. We need:

    • Respect.
    • Real support.
    • Relief from policies that punish us for asking for help.
    • Space to be both parents and professionals — without judgment.

    Let’s Celebrate Autism – Every Day

    Today, I invite you to not only celebrate children like Akintade, but the families who love them fiercely. We celebrate:

    • Every milestone, no matter how small.
    • Every nonverbal hug.
    • Every sensory-friendly win.
    • Every educator who “gets it.”
    • Every parent doing their best in a world that often doesn’t make room for them.

    Let’s raise awareness, not just for a day — but for a lifetime.

    What The World Needs to Know About Autism:

    1. Autism is not a tragedy. Ignorance is.
    2. Every autistic person is different — there’s no one-size-fits-all.
    3. Early support changes lives.
    4. Parents aren’t superheroes — we need help too.
    5. Be kind. Your understanding could be someone’s lifeline.

    Explore Autism Diet Solutions

    I’ve created a helpful resource for families navigating autism — a practical guide called:

    👉 10 Autism Diets to Help Reduce Symptoms

    It’s designed for parents who want to explore how nutrition can support their child’s wellbeing. Whether you’re new to dietary intervention or looking for additional insight, this guide is for you.

    Final Words

    Every day is Autism Awareness Day in our home — not because we choose it, but because we live it. And while it’s tough, it’s also full of moments that take our breath away.

    To the world: Be kind to us. Be kind to our children. Be part of the change.

    To families on the same journey: You are seen. You are powerful. You are not alone.

    Let’s Connect

    Follow my journey, grab resources, and support my mission to empower families of children with special needs.
    Visit My Stan Store

    Written with love and fire, from one autism mama (FOLU) to the world 💙

    Follow us on instagram and Facebook ; @tadeautism.center @autismtreatmentsi
    Share this post with someone who needs it.

    #AutismAwareness #AutismParenting #LifeWithAutism #AutismEveryDay #SpecialNeedsParenting #AkintadesJourney #Neurodiversity #AutismAcceptance #AutismSupport #AutismAdvocate #BlackMothersOfAutism #AutismAndCareer #AutismDiet #BeKindAlways #AutismInAfrica

    Akintade’s christening @ 40 days old

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    Akintade now

    {“fullMd5″:”239e941e083cf5e40b4bdaefa209fd63”}

  • Echoes from my father series : 20 Things My Late Father Would Say About My Journey

    1. “You carried the weight of the world with grace.”
      I left you too soon, my dear child, and yet you became a rock for your sisters. You took on the role of a parent and gave them the love and guidance I could no longer provide. Look at them now—thriving! That’s your doing.
    2. “I’m proud of the Tech leader you’ve become.”
      You didn’t just adapt to the changing world; you became one of the trailblazers shaping it. Your expertise in tech has broken barriers, inspired others, and created opportunities for countless people.
    3. “Your heart for autism advocacy is a gift to the world.”
      When life gave you challenges, you turned them into a mission. Founding Tade Autism Centre and Autism Treatment Support Initiatives showed the depth of your compassion. You’ve given hope to families like ours, showing them they’re never alone.
    4. “You’ve turned pain into purpose.”
      Losing me and your mum shaped your strength, but it didn’t harden your heart. Instead, it fueled your passion to make a difference, and that’s something I admire deeply.
    5. “The charities you founded are your legacy of love.”
      You’ve poured your soul into helping others. Through your charities, you’ve transformed lives, championed inclusion, and brought a sense of belonging to those who felt left behind.
    6. “An online tuition system? That’s genius!”
      Education was always our family’s cornerstone, and you’ve built on that. With your tuition system, you’re giving kids tools to succeed, no matter where they come from. It’s revolutionary—and so very you.
    7. “You raised your sisters like a mother would.”
      They were young when I passed, but you gave them everything. Look at them now—doctors, engineers, business leaders. That’s the fruit of your sacrifice and love.
    8. “Your role as a venture capitalist is awe-inspiring.”
      Investing in others’ dreams? That’s your superpower. You’ve turned ideas into empires and empowered people to create jobs and innovations that change the world.
    9. “You’ve mastered the art of balance.”
      A tech leader, an advocate, a charity founder, a mother, a mentor—you wear so many hats, yet you’ve never let one overshadow the other. That’s no small feat.
    10. “You’re raising your children to be extraordinary.”
      I see your kids, and I see your legacy. They’re resilient, compassionate, and full of potential—all because of you. Akintade is a testament to your patience, faith, and unwavering hope.
    11. “Your faith has guided your every step.”
      Through every trial, you’ve leaned on God, and that’s what kept you standing. Your faith is the foundation of everything you’ve achieved, and it’s evident in all you do.
    12. “You’re a voice for the voiceless.”
      Whether it’s advocating for children with autism or mentoring women, you’ve amplified voices that deserve to be heard. You’ve made the world take notice, and I couldn’t be prouder.
    13. “You’ve turned challenges into stepping stones.”
      Life wasn’t kind when it took me away, but you refused to let hardship define you. Instead, you used it to climb higher and inspire others to do the same.
    14. “You’ve left your mark on the world of business.”
      As a serial entrepreneur, you’ve built ventures that don’t just generate profit—they solve real problems. That’s what makes you stand out in a sea of businesses.
    15. “You’ve inspired countless mothers.”
      Your story of balancing career, family, and selflessness is one that so many mothers look up to. You’ve shown them it’s possible to dream big and still nurture a loving home.
    16. “Your resilience is unparalleled.”
      Losing both parents, raising your sisters, founding charities, building businesses—you’ve faced mountains most people couldn’t climb. But you climbed, and then you built roads for others.
    17. “You’ve honored our family’s name.”
      Everything you’ve done has been with integrity, compassion, and excellence. You’ve shown the world what it means to rise from adversity and shine.
    18. “You’ve made education accessible and exciting.”
      Through your tuition system and mentorship programs, you’ve redefined how children learn and how women succeed. That’s a legacy no one can erase.
    19. “Your entrepreneurial spirit is unmatched.”
      From tech innovations to impactful charities, you’ve taken risks that paid off in ways no one could’ve imagined. You’ve shown that being bold and caring go hand in hand.
    20. “I’m proud to call you my daughter.”
      Above all else, you’ve stayed true to who you are—a kind, brilliant, and tenacious soul. You’ve made me prouder than words can say, and I’m watching over you with a heart full of love.

    “Keep going, my dear. The world is better because of you.”

    #TechLeader #AutismAdvocate #CharityFounder #VentureCapitalist #MomMentor #SerialEntrepreneur #Resilience #Leadership #WomenInTech #AutismSupport #CharityWork #Entrepreneurship #FaithDriven #FamilyFirst #Inspiration #EducationMatters #BalanceInLife #MotherhoodJourney #BusinessSuccess #LifeLessons #LegacyOfLove

  • Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) in the UK

    Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) in the UK

    An Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document designed for children and young people up to age 25 who need additional support beyond what is typically provided in educational settings. The EHCP outlines the child’s special educational, health, and social care needs and details the support required to achieve their educational goals.

    Here’s a guide to help you navigate the EHCP process in the UK.

    Step 1: Understanding the EHCP and Who Can Request One

    1. Who can request an EHCP?
      • A parent or guardian, a young person over 16, or the school/educational setting can request an EHCP assessment.
      • Typically, an EHCP request is made when the school’s current support does not meet the child’s needs, even with Special Educational Needs (SEN) provisions.
    2. Eligibility
      • The local authority (LA) will assess if the child has or may have SEN that requires an EHCP.
      • The LA’s decision is based on whether the current provisions meet the needs or if additional support is essential.

    Step 2: Requesting an EHCP Needs Assessment

    1. Gather Documentation
      • Collect evidence of the child’s needs, including:
        • Reports from the school (e.g., Individual Education Plans, SEN Support Plans).
        • Medical or professional assessments.
        • Records of interventions and their impact.
    2. Submit the Request
      • Write a formal request to the local authority’s SEN department. Ensure to include documentation of the child’s needs and any existing support.
      • Many councils provide templates or online forms. Check your borough’s website for specific forms.
    3. LA’s Decision Timeline
      • The LA has six weeks to respond. They may:
        • Accept the request and proceed with an assessment.
        • Decline the request. In case of refusal, you can appeal to the First-Tier Tribunal (SEND).

    Step 3: EHCP Needs Assessment

    1. What Happens During the Assessment?
      • If the request is accepted, the LA will conduct a needs assessment.
      • This involves gathering reports from various professionals, including:
        • Educational psychologists
        • Health professionals (such as speech and language therapists, occupational therapists)
        • Social care assessments if necessary
      • Parental input is essential, as parents provide key insights into their child’s needs and daily experiences.
    2. Assessment Timeline
      • The LA has a maximum of 16 weeks from the initial request date to decide if an EHCP is needed following the assessment.

    Step 4: Drafting the EHCP

    1. Creating the EHCP Document
      • If the LA decides an EHCP is needed, they will create a draft EHCP.
      • Parents receive a copy to review and can request specific changes or amendments. Parents also select the school preference during this stage.
    2. Review and Amendments
      • Once parents review the draft, they have 15 days to respond.
      • The LA must consider parents’ preferences and requested amendments, though they may not adopt all suggestions.
    3. Finalizing the EHCP
      • After reviewing any parental feedback, the LA will issue the final EHCP, which includes:
        • The child’s identified needs.
        • Specific support required to meet those needs.
        • Goals or outcomes expected.
        • Named school placement, if applicable.
    4. Timeline for Final EHCP
      • The entire process, from initial request to the final EHCP, should be completed within 20 weeks.

    Step 5: Annual Reviews and Monitoring

    1. Annual Reviews
      • EHCPs are reviewed annually to assess the child’s progress and ensure continued adequacy of support.
      • For children under five, reviews may be more frequent if necessary.
    2. Amendments Post-Review
      • If the child’s needs change significantly, parents or the educational setting may request amendments to the EHCP at any time.
      • The local authority must confirm within eight weeks if they agree to amend the EHCP.

    Timeline for Each Borough

    Each borough in the UK follows the same statutory timeframes:

    • Decision to assess: Six weeks.
    • Completion of the EHCP needs assessment: 16 weeks.
    • Issuance of final EHCP: 20 weeks.

    However, some boroughs may process applications faster based on available resources and efficiency. Check with your local authority for specific processing times and additional resources. Click on this page to download a detailed EHCP:

    Need a comprehensive EHCP guide? Download yours now at my Stan store: https://stan.store/folukt3!

    Appendix: Useful Links

    1. General Information on EHCPs
    2. Local Authority Contacts and Specific Forms
    3. Mediation and Appeals
    4. Parent Support Networks

    Navigating the EHCP process can be challenging, so connecting with local SEN support groups or parent advocates may also help.

    To get professional help with your child’s EHCP, contact me on Folu@thisisfolu.uk for a free consultation.

    Follow @tadeautism.center and @autismtreatmentsupportsi for more information .

    #EHCP #SpecialEducationNeeds #UKEducation #ChildSupport #SENsupport #EducationPlan #ChildAdvocacy #ParentsGuide #SpecialNeedsEducation #InclusiveEducation #SENparenting #UKSchools #EducationSupport #EHCPprocess #ChildrenWithDisabilities

  • An Open Letter to My Son with the Most Beautiful Mind, Akintade

    My dearest Akintade,

    You are my first child, the child of my youth, my womb opener. I still vividly remember when you were diagnosed with autism at just 2.5 years old. Before that moment, I noticed some early signs—things that made me worry deeply. You struggled to maintain eye contact, didn’t respond to your name the way I expected, and often seemed distant, as if the world around you was too overwhelming. I watched you retreat into your own space, and my heart ached. Those days were filled with fear, worry, and endless trips to doctors and specialists. I was searching for answers, desperate to understand what was happening, and terrified for your little brother, who I carried in my womb at the time. I was paranoid, afraid, and confused.

    The day your brother was born, I cried. I remember holding him in my arms and apologizing to my tiny baby. I felt guilt—guilt for not being able to give him a brother who would sing to him, rock him to sleep, or grow up alongside him in the way I had always imagined. I wonder if you saw the fear in my eyes during those times. There were moments when you would cry, then suddenly stop, turning to look at me as if you understood. It was as though you knew my fears without me ever having to say a word.

    Since then, I have fought many battles—strangers giving us looks, hospitals for the right treatment, social services for the support we needed, and the educational system for a school that would be the best fit for you. I threw myself into work, determined to give you the best life I could. There have been days when I felt exhausted, but each small progress you made kept us going. Every step forward you’ve taken has been a prayer answered. Even if parents of neurotypical children might not understand, I celebrate every little milestone, for they are victories for you and for us.

    Akintade, you have come so far. You can now sit calmly, communicate in your own way, and make sense of the world around you on your terms. I’ve learned that God’s beauty shines through our children in different ways, each one unique. People often ask me when you’ll get a job, get married, or have children of your own. What they don’t realise is that God’s miracles unfold in their own time. I am overjoyed with the things you can do now—the things I once thought you might never be able to achieve. You tidy up your own centre, the Tade Autism Centre, organizing everything for yourself and the others who benefit from it. Without any spoken word or formal contract, you’ve earned your place as the CEO of your own centre. God has truly been good to you, my son.

    I look to God every day as He continues to reveal His special plan for your life. Through it all, I’ve faced challenges, persecution, and pain because of the world’s lack of understanding, but it has opened my eyes to the greater things God has in store. As a Christian, I trust that He makes everything beautiful in His time, and I will forever be grateful for the precious gift that is you.

    I love you always,
    Your mother

    Folu

    Founder Tade Autism centre , Autism Treatment Support initiatives

    You can follow Take Autism Centre on Instagram @tadeautism.center

    @autismtreatmentsi

    #AutismAwareness #GodsPlan #SpecialNeedsParenting #AutismDiagnosis #FaithInTheJourney #ParentingWithLove #AutismAcceptance #StrengthInLove #Neurodiversity #TadeAutismCentre