Nicole Bateman, co-founder of The Super Sensory Squad, joined hundreds of guests for a special reception at the House of Lords on Monday in the run-up to Small Business Saturday.

The campaign takes place this Saturday 7 December and celebrates small business success, encouraging people to shop local and support businesses in their communities.

Hosted by Small Business Saturday in partnership with American Express, the event in Westminster honoured The Super Sensory Squad, which Nicole runs with business partner and occupational therapist Kate Grayson.

It’s part of this year’s SmallBiz100, a lineup of 100 small businesses from all over the country.

The Super Sensory Squad and its founders were recognised for their inspiring entrepreneurial journey and positive impact on society.

Nicole and her team help children understand their sensory needs, as well as supporting parents, schools and venues to create more inclusive spaces for neurodivergent children.

Nicole with Tom Hayes MP

The ‘squad’ features eight penguin characters corresponding to the eight sensory systems, which have even featured in an illustrated children’s book – The Super Sensory Squad Save Buzz’s Birthday.

The business also runs training and courses.

Nicole said: “It was wonderful to be named as one of the top 100 small businesses in the UK along with many other inspiring businesses.

“It’s extra special because this business was born from trying to help my son, who is autistic and has epilepsy, and now the penguins help many children around the country.

“Kate and I are on a mission to help society understand how important it is for sensory needs to be understood from a young age.

“If sensory needs are understood and met, then children will be more emotionally regulated and are more able to engage in daily tasks and access learning.”

Small business owners and MPs from all over the country came together for the reception, including Bournemouth East’s own Tom Hayes.

Michelle Ovens CBE, director of Small Business Saturday UK, said: “Small businesses like The Super Sensory Squad deliver incredible value across their local community and the wider economy, so it’s wonderful to have celebrated their contribution at the House of Lords.

“Public support is absolutely vital for small businesses across the UK, so we urge everyone up and down the country to get behind them on Small Business Saturday and beyond.”

Plenty of Dorset’s own small businesses will be participating in the campaign this Saturday, hosting events, offering promotions and collaborating with other local businesses.

• thesupersensorysquad.com
• smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com