How We Fail SEND Families with Debra Paynter

In this episode of Dysfunctional, Josh sits down with Debra Paynter — business manager, single parent, and advocate — for a raw conversation about raising her son, Teddy, who is autistic and has a learning disability.

They explore:

Why SEND families are so often failed by schools, local authorities, and society

The difference between a tantrum and a meltdown, and what public judgement really feels like

How lockdown became a turning point in Teddy’s development

The exhausting fight to secure the right school place and legal protections

What society could do — right now — to better support SEND parents

The unexpected joy, connection, and resilience Debra has found in her journey

This is a conversation about courage, love, and truth-telling — and it will make you think differently about SEND parenting.

Follow Debra:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debs.does.asana/

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