Testimonials ... |
|
We greatly value all feedback regarding our services, support and training. Below you will find a selection of reviews from parents, carers, young people, schools and professionals. You can contact us anytime to give us feedback, we’d love to hear from you!
Feedback from Parents/Carers ...
"Lisa and the team have literally changed lives in our family in a matter of months. The kids feel safe, listened to and understood. I have been given unlimited support to understand how best to navigate every new challenge, and I've never had to explain my fears, frustrations or feelings. They just get it. They get us." - July 2024
“Thank you so much for all you have done with M, it has helped so much. I hope she settles better into next year but if there are any further problems I would definitely welcome further support from you. You have been amazing with her.”
“Words can’t even come close to express the depth of gratitude I owe you all. G is almost unrecognisable compared to the young man he had started to become last year. You collectively guided him onto the path that you both agreed was right for him and he is absolutely flourishing. I can’t thank you enough.”
“My daughter was diagnosed with ASD after a number of mental health issues. After working with CAMHS they suggested contacting South West Autism and we are so grateful that they did! Lisa’s understanding of autism and associated conditions is incredible. She took the time to understand our daughter and her specific needs and supports us brilliantly as a family. Her support and guidance has given us a much better understanding of our daughter’s newly diagnosed autism. Whenever our daughter spends time with Lisa I know that she feels supported, listened to and understood which is something that educational settings haven’t always been able to do. For us, the part that Lisa has played in our family’s journey to support, understand and embrace our daughter’s autism has been priceless – we certainly wouldn’t be in a such a positive place without her. Thank you South West Autism!”
“I would just like to say that I don’t know where I would be now if I hadn’t got in touch with you. A was in a very dark place and with your help and one to one sessions you helped them to understand themselves and definitely gave them more confidence to cope with day to day life and got them through their A levels. Thank you so much.”
“I cannot rate the services of South West Autism highly enough. Lisa and Greg’s experience and expertise have been invaluable in helping support my son and I on our ASD journey. The support we have had with the school, guidance on funding as well as one to one mentoring for both my son and I have been exceptional. It is a great feeling to know that Lisa and Greg are around as a local service, and as a parent I feel that I am doing everything I can to give my son the additional hep he needs, through the association with South West Autism.”
“I just wanted to say what an amazing relief it was to speak to you both today, to be in the presence of two people with such empathy and understanding for our situation was like a breath of fresh air. We now have hope that we can find the path that is right for my son and be able to have support along the way.”
"Greg has been coming to tutor my son for a little over a year now. His kindness, patience, empathy and genuine understanding of ASD have been unmatched by any school, and have provided him with much, much more than just basic lessons. He has given him confidence in himself, and an ability to trust other people."
"Speaking as parents of a teenage boy on the Autistic Spectrum, we could not praise this service highly enough. Several years ago, when our son had no official diagnosis, no eligibility for any type of specialised support and we, as parents felt isolated and alone we were fortunate enough to 'discover' this vital service."
"We have only known Lisa and Greg for a short time but on the first occasion Greg took my son out, he came back absolutely buzzing (in a good way!) He was full of what he and Greg ad done and was counting down the days to his next trip. Greg seems to be 'in tune' with F and understands him so well, my only regret is that we didn't meet them sooner! We have had enablers previously but have never experienced this positive and happy response response before. I cannot recommend the service provided highly enough and hope to continue our relationship for some time to come."
"Lisa has been working with and helping our whole family for many months. Her knowledge and experienced of ASD and the way in which she is able to impart that to others is amazing. Lisa has remined positive ad offered encouragement when at times we have felt we were at rock bottom. She has been there when and where we've needed her with endless support and advice. As my daughter would say "Lisa gets it!" and that is so important. We would without hesitation recommend Lisa's services to other families. Thank you so much Lisa, we wouldn't be where we are today without you."
"Meeting you was amazing ... you have given me fresh hope ... thank you so much for bringing back my spark!"
Feedback from Young People ...
"Lisa and southwest autism have literally saved my life, and massively helped me improve my life and my future. Because of her I feel prepared to go live abroad for 3 months and to go to university, with the coping skills I have learned thanks to her. I cannot thank or praise Lisa and her expertise enough. I wish all young autistic people could have a Lisa." February 2025
“Once you get to know the staff, they are really nice and kind. They give you lots of opportunities to make your life better, stuff like climbing and learning lots of life skills. I have cooked pizza there and even played computer games!”
“When I wasn’t in school South West Autism was the only thing that I had to go to. I really liked the independence skills groups I did, because it was the only time I saw other people, we usually did things I like too like cooking. I also used to see Lisa and now it's Fiona and they are both really nice, we sometimes go and do things and sometimes we just talk, but I feel like they just get me when sometimes other people don’t.”
“Lisa is really helpful and perceptive. She has very detailed knowledge and it is easy to communicate with her. I have found my time with Lisa has helped me better understand myself.”
Feedback regarding training delivered...
“Lisa delivered Autism Awareness Training for our staff team. The feedback from staff was entirely positive, with members of the team commenting that they appreciated Lisa’s depth of knowledge and honest approach. Staff left the session with an improved understanding of how to support pupils in their care and a desire to learn more about specific areas.” – Starcross School
“Many thanks for the superb training. I can’t remember the last time so many people have come up to me and expressed how good a training session is! Thank you.” - Kenn and Kenton School
“I have had so many people talking to me about your sessions …. “
“Every teacher needs to hear this.”
“I wish I had known all this years ago.”
“This will be so useful this year when I teach ….”
- Exeter School
“Thank you so much for the training, have great feedback from everyone, and those that haven’t been able to attend are asking when the next course is!” – Exeter Airport
"Thank you for the superb ASD training. It was such a refreshing change to hear someone deliver training that actually meant something and was relevant ... It was so enlightening to hear that you have been at the coalface and as a parent of an ASD child, you are not someone who speaks from sitting behind a desk!!" - Tavistock College
Discovering Rainbows Course ...
“This has been the most supportive provision we have accessed. Being together with others, sharing our experiences, in a safe and informative environment has helped us to feel that we can move forward as a family with positivity ad understanding. Lisa’s knowledge is delivered with insight, good humour and is relevant to all families with young people with Autism.”
“South West Autism’s Discovering Rainbows course was very useful for myself, my partner and other family members in explaining the intricacies and challenges faced by our autistic children and how to support them and manage day to day challenges. Lisa is a professional but approachable and warm.”
“Opens your mind to the world your child lives in, offers support and training and goes above and beyond to help you understand your child.”
Feedback from Professionals ...
“Lisa is extremely knowledgeable regarding ASD and is up to date with the latest research and practice. This enabled her to build a trusting relationship with a young person, supporting him to access support from other professionals and bring about positive changes in his life. Lisa was able to be his advocate in meetings and she was a huge support to the family.” – Social Worker
“I have always been impressed by Mrs McCullagh’s professionalism, her innate and intuitive understanding of the difficulties experienced by these children and their families and her sensitive and humane approach to working with them.”
– Dr P
“Lisa made an outstanding contribution to the SEN department and has been recognised and appreciated by staff for her support and guidance. She has excellent relationships with students who feel valued and support by her”.
– Headteacher
“Mrs McCullagh has an impressive breadth of knowledge around autistic spectrum conditions. She demonstrates an understanding of the anxieties and frustrations experienced by her clients and the ability to talk through and support them through their difficulties.” - CAMHS
"Lisa, Greg and the team at South West Autism were able to offer us support at a very tricky time. The provision they are able to offer is second to none – highly recommended from a very grateful SENDCo!"
"Lisa's knowledge of ASD is exceptional ... she demonstrates highly professional management skills, leading and aspiring staff" - SENDCo
"Lisa and the team have literally changed lives in our family in a matter of months. The kids feel safe, listened to and understood. I have been given unlimited support to understand how best to navigate every new challenge, and I've never had to explain my fears, frustrations or feelings. They just get it. They get us." - July 2024
“Thank you so much for all you have done with M, it has helped so much. I hope she settles better into next year but if there are any further problems I would definitely welcome further support from you. You have been amazing with her.”
“Words can’t even come close to express the depth of gratitude I owe you all. G is almost unrecognisable compared to the young man he had started to become last year. You collectively guided him onto the path that you both agreed was right for him and he is absolutely flourishing. I can’t thank you enough.”
“My daughter was diagnosed with ASD after a number of mental health issues. After working with CAMHS they suggested contacting South West Autism and we are so grateful that they did! Lisa’s understanding of autism and associated conditions is incredible. She took the time to understand our daughter and her specific needs and supports us brilliantly as a family. Her support and guidance has given us a much better understanding of our daughter’s newly diagnosed autism. Whenever our daughter spends time with Lisa I know that she feels supported, listened to and understood which is something that educational settings haven’t always been able to do. For us, the part that Lisa has played in our family’s journey to support, understand and embrace our daughter’s autism has been priceless – we certainly wouldn’t be in a such a positive place without her. Thank you South West Autism!”
“I would just like to say that I don’t know where I would be now if I hadn’t got in touch with you. A was in a very dark place and with your help and one to one sessions you helped them to understand themselves and definitely gave them more confidence to cope with day to day life and got them through their A levels. Thank you so much.”
“I cannot rate the services of South West Autism highly enough. Lisa and Greg’s experience and expertise have been invaluable in helping support my son and I on our ASD journey. The support we have had with the school, guidance on funding as well as one to one mentoring for both my son and I have been exceptional. It is a great feeling to know that Lisa and Greg are around as a local service, and as a parent I feel that I am doing everything I can to give my son the additional hep he needs, through the association with South West Autism.”
“I just wanted to say what an amazing relief it was to speak to you both today, to be in the presence of two people with such empathy and understanding for our situation was like a breath of fresh air. We now have hope that we can find the path that is right for my son and be able to have support along the way.”
"Greg has been coming to tutor my son for a little over a year now. His kindness, patience, empathy and genuine understanding of ASD have been unmatched by any school, and have provided him with much, much more than just basic lessons. He has given him confidence in himself, and an ability to trust other people."
"Speaking as parents of a teenage boy on the Autistic Spectrum, we could not praise this service highly enough. Several years ago, when our son had no official diagnosis, no eligibility for any type of specialised support and we, as parents felt isolated and alone we were fortunate enough to 'discover' this vital service."
"We have only known Lisa and Greg for a short time but on the first occasion Greg took my son out, he came back absolutely buzzing (in a good way!) He was full of what he and Greg ad done and was counting down the days to his next trip. Greg seems to be 'in tune' with F and understands him so well, my only regret is that we didn't meet them sooner! We have had enablers previously but have never experienced this positive and happy response response before. I cannot recommend the service provided highly enough and hope to continue our relationship for some time to come."
"Lisa has been working with and helping our whole family for many months. Her knowledge and experienced of ASD and the way in which she is able to impart that to others is amazing. Lisa has remined positive ad offered encouragement when at times we have felt we were at rock bottom. She has been there when and where we've needed her with endless support and advice. As my daughter would say "Lisa gets it!" and that is so important. We would without hesitation recommend Lisa's services to other families. Thank you so much Lisa, we wouldn't be where we are today without you."
"Meeting you was amazing ... you have given me fresh hope ... thank you so much for bringing back my spark!"
Feedback from Young People ...
"Lisa and southwest autism have literally saved my life, and massively helped me improve my life and my future. Because of her I feel prepared to go live abroad for 3 months and to go to university, with the coping skills I have learned thanks to her. I cannot thank or praise Lisa and her expertise enough. I wish all young autistic people could have a Lisa." February 2025
“Once you get to know the staff, they are really nice and kind. They give you lots of opportunities to make your life better, stuff like climbing and learning lots of life skills. I have cooked pizza there and even played computer games!”
“When I wasn’t in school South West Autism was the only thing that I had to go to. I really liked the independence skills groups I did, because it was the only time I saw other people, we usually did things I like too like cooking. I also used to see Lisa and now it's Fiona and they are both really nice, we sometimes go and do things and sometimes we just talk, but I feel like they just get me when sometimes other people don’t.”
“Lisa is really helpful and perceptive. She has very detailed knowledge and it is easy to communicate with her. I have found my time with Lisa has helped me better understand myself.”
Feedback regarding training delivered...
“Lisa delivered Autism Awareness Training for our staff team. The feedback from staff was entirely positive, with members of the team commenting that they appreciated Lisa’s depth of knowledge and honest approach. Staff left the session with an improved understanding of how to support pupils in their care and a desire to learn more about specific areas.” – Starcross School
“Many thanks for the superb training. I can’t remember the last time so many people have come up to me and expressed how good a training session is! Thank you.” - Kenn and Kenton School
“I have had so many people talking to me about your sessions …. “
“Every teacher needs to hear this.”
“I wish I had known all this years ago.”
“This will be so useful this year when I teach ….”
- Exeter School
“Thank you so much for the training, have great feedback from everyone, and those that haven’t been able to attend are asking when the next course is!” – Exeter Airport
"Thank you for the superb ASD training. It was such a refreshing change to hear someone deliver training that actually meant something and was relevant ... It was so enlightening to hear that you have been at the coalface and as a parent of an ASD child, you are not someone who speaks from sitting behind a desk!!" - Tavistock College
Discovering Rainbows Course ...
“This has been the most supportive provision we have accessed. Being together with others, sharing our experiences, in a safe and informative environment has helped us to feel that we can move forward as a family with positivity ad understanding. Lisa’s knowledge is delivered with insight, good humour and is relevant to all families with young people with Autism.”
“South West Autism’s Discovering Rainbows course was very useful for myself, my partner and other family members in explaining the intricacies and challenges faced by our autistic children and how to support them and manage day to day challenges. Lisa is a professional but approachable and warm.”
“Opens your mind to the world your child lives in, offers support and training and goes above and beyond to help you understand your child.”
Feedback from Professionals ...
“Lisa is extremely knowledgeable regarding ASD and is up to date with the latest research and practice. This enabled her to build a trusting relationship with a young person, supporting him to access support from other professionals and bring about positive changes in his life. Lisa was able to be his advocate in meetings and she was a huge support to the family.” – Social Worker
“I have always been impressed by Mrs McCullagh’s professionalism, her innate and intuitive understanding of the difficulties experienced by these children and their families and her sensitive and humane approach to working with them.”
– Dr P
“Lisa made an outstanding contribution to the SEN department and has been recognised and appreciated by staff for her support and guidance. She has excellent relationships with students who feel valued and support by her”.
– Headteacher
“Mrs McCullagh has an impressive breadth of knowledge around autistic spectrum conditions. She demonstrates an understanding of the anxieties and frustrations experienced by her clients and the ability to talk through and support them through their difficulties.” - CAMHS
"Lisa, Greg and the team at South West Autism were able to offer us support at a very tricky time. The provision they are able to offer is second to none – highly recommended from a very grateful SENDCo!"
"Lisa's knowledge of ASD is exceptional ... she demonstrates highly professional management skills, leading and aspiring staff" - SENDCo
