About The Butterfly Project

The Butterfly Project was founded by Sonja Elliott (Teacher) and Leann Burns (Independent Support Broker) in 2009 as a response to the limited pathways available in Newham for young people with complex needs - including Profound & Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder, as they transition into adult life.

Following successful outcomes generated from a trial at the beginning of 2009, the Project was keen to establish itself as an independent service provider working for young people with complex needs living in Newham. The Project managed to secure significant support from families, professional colleagues and organisations - many of whom suggested establishing ourselves as a business as the best way forwards in light of recent developments and changes in Social Care, in particular the implementation of Self-Directed Support (SDS).

To this end, the Project has grown into a Social Enterprise that started in July 2010.  This is essentially a not-for-profit, community-based company with social development aims at our core. Any profit made by the company will be re-invested into furthering our work to create better options and outcomes for young people with complex needs.

With a focus on working with young people and their families to design bespoke support plans, to developing a varied and interesting workshop programme, to providing training, support and mentoring to personal assistants employed to support young people - The Butterfly Project is dedicated to improving the transition experience for young people living in Newham.