Former police officer sets up affordable legal service to help parents fight for best education for disabled children

Cheryl Thornley says her service aims to help people who don't qualify for legal aid but cannot afford expensive solicitors' fees.

A parent of a disabled child herself, she says she is "passionate" about equality, inclusion and access to services.

Her firm, Puzzle Piece Law, also offers help in family breakdown cases, including those involving domestic violence.

"In the current climate, people are really suffering and need to know where they can find the right support. With charities at breaking point, this will hopefully give them another option to get the help they need," she said.

"Family breakdown is unsettling, sensitive and life-changing. Who do you turn to? Where can you get support and information? This area of law requires a very holistic approach and we aim to help you not only with the legal aspects but also sign post you to the right people for support, information and long term planning for you and your family."

Part of Cheryl's police career was spent supporting vulnerable victims in rape and serious sexual assualt investigations in MK.

Her other field of expertise is disability and education la for young people.. Her daughter Jasmine, who is 18, has a rare life-limiting condition that affects her daily living.

Cheryl has already written successful legal challenges for issues affecting children and teens in the local disabled community such as school transport and the withdrawal of short break vouchers.

She said: "Securing the right special educational needs provision for your child can be complex, leaving parents feeling exhausted and frustrated. I understand how passionate parents are about ensuring the right provisions are in place for your child."

Puzzle Piece Law will help parent fight for an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP), draft letters to the local authority or tribunal service and help lodge appeals.

"I truly believe that this is a much needed service in Milton Keynes," she said.