I have an autistic son...you have to fight every step of the way when you want support

AS EastEnders' Linda Carter, Kellie Bright has faced heartbreak, grief and despair.

- JEN PHARO

But no soap storyline could prepare her for the frustration, anxiety and heartache of trying to fight for her autistic son's education.

Freddie, 13, has been diagnosed with autism, ADHD and dyslexia.

But despite this, Kellie has struggled to secure him an Education Health Care Plan, which would entitle him to extra support.

Now the soap star, 49, has filmed a programme for Panorama examining the exhausting and expensive fight parents face just to get their children the right help at school.

Kellie says: "I've wanted to make a documentary about special needs for a really long time.

"To try and get the support you need you have to fight every step of the way.

"I hear from lots and lots of families how the system is broken, how things need to change so I want to shine a light on it, I want to speak to families who are suffering.

"I am very fortunate to be in a position because of my job that I do have a voice, I do have a platform and I want to use it."