I’m Caitlin, I’ve been a member of Shout Out for SEND for 9 years and I’m here to share my story of what it’s meant to me.
I’ve worked out that I’ve been to around 120 Shout Out for SEND sessions since I joined in 2016. Throughout my time here I’ve gone through leaving school, college, supported internships, and the small matter of COVID too – and getting a job through all that time as well!
Sam asked me some questions and here’s what I had to say about my time here.
What’s been your favourite moment on the programme?
Doing a collaboration between the wider youth voice group and Shout Out for SEND in 2019. I loved this because they got to see what we do from our perspective and why we do it — it was really rewarding.
Is there a time that made you feel really proud?
Helping at the Youth Summit in 2025. I was able to help plan and run the activities and saw all the young people we worked with having fun and being heard. It’s something I never thought I’d do, but I’m proud I did it!
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself during Shout Out for SEND?
I’ve always said that SOfS has given me self-worth. Before SOfS I felt alone, isolated and different, and then when I joined the group and learned that there are others like me, it made me feel less alone. It’s so nice to be part of a group that doesn’t judge each other and accepts you for who you are.
Can you describe a moment where you felt heard or understood?
This year (2025), I had a chance to meet with Andy Fitton, who is the head of CAMHS. I felt like he truly listened to my story — not just nodding his head (as many people do), but showing he cared, asking me questions, and being kind to me. When he shared he’d take what he’s learnt from me back to his team, it made me feel valid.
How has being part of Shout Out for SEND changed you or your confidence?
It’s changed me quite a lot. It’s made me feel more open-minded and confident – it took me quite a while to open up to the group, but now I feel more comfortable speaking to people I don’t know.
At the start of Shout Out for SEND, it was mainly boys and not girls, which was a bit of a trigger for me, but this helped me realise that not all people are the same, and it helped me speak to people that I’m not usually comfortable speaking to.
What’s a skill or strength you’ve developed?
Finding my voice and being able to stand up for myself (even if it annoys some people in my family!)
Have you faced any challenges, and how did you overcome them?
In 2018, I had to do some public speaking (with our previous worker, Emily), telling other young people in school about Shout Out for SEND. I was so nervous I thought I might explode… but I did it, and it went a lot better than I thought!
Why do you think Shout Out for SEND should exist?
It’s inspiring for young people with SEND to know that there’s people like them out there — and so they can change how people with SEND are seen.
What makes it different from other youth programmes?
In Shout Out for SEND, we are given the support we need when we need it — whether that is in a session or if we need help in our lives.
Why is it important for young people with SEND to have a voice?
So they can make changes in the world for those living with SEND. Also, to help people living with people with SEND understand how to support us. It always depends on the person, which is important to remember.
If Shout Out for SEND was a song, what would the title be?
Scream & Shout by will.i.am
Describe the Shout Out for SEND in three words.
Community, changes, and impact
If you could write a message to your past self before joining, what would it say?
Don’t doubt yourself about joining — just jump in head first! Everyone is really open and friendly, and it’s going to be a great time.
Thank you all for the memories over the years its been an amazing 9 years and I’m sad this is ending but I will miss you all
Best of luck in the future Caitlin! You’ve been such a massive part of Shout Out for SEND for so long and we will miss you very much!
For more information
If you’d like to find out more about Shout Out for SEND, email ShoutOutforSEND@Buckinghamshire.gov.uk.