"A welcoming, safe space for parents and carers of children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) to meet in person and share experiences, support and advice."
2026 dates: | |
|---|---|
| All sessions run from 11.00am to 12.30pm | |
| Fri 2nd Oct | Fri 16th Oct |
| Fri 6th Nov | Fri 20th Nov |
| Fri 4th Dec |
A welcoming and safe space for parents and carers of children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) to meet in person and share experiences, support and advice. Somewhere to chat freely with others who 'know what its like', without judgement, and to feel supported.
No diagnosis required; if you suspect SEND or your child is awaiting assessment you are welcome to attend.
Every week we have:
Come and join us. You'll always find warmth, empathy, kindness and understanding.
Yes - but they remain your responsibility.
Children are welcome to join you, but whilst we are getting established at our new venue we don't currently have any play areas available.
However we still have our popular range of craft activites which children may like to make use of, and we have quiet tables to the side for those who might like their own space, or to bring their own entertainment.
Whilst we don't currently officially charge, we DO ask those that attend to donate to contribute towards costs, so we can cover our expenses.
We politely suggest a donation of £3-£5 each time you come.
Donations can be made in cash, or by contactless payment on site.
Set up by a mum with an autistic child, its run by parent-carers, who know first hand how hard raising a SEND child can be, and the additional challenges or isolation that trying to provide well for them can often bring.
Many of us have been there when it comes to trying to secure an EHCP, DLA, Carers allowance or a suitable education / other provision for our awesome children, and are willing to help.
The café offers a safe non-judgemental space in which to share stories, tears, laughter, empathy and advice, so we can all support each other and not feel so alone when we face these sorts of struggles.
You don't need to pre-book. Just 'turn up on the day' - we will monitor how busy we get and if this needs to change.
Typically we get between 6 and 16 parent-carers each time, so numbers vary week to week.
The venue has a large car park opposite the church. Access is via steps at the main lychgate or wheelchair access via the churchyard gate, further along Church Road. Disabled parking bays are available.
“My daughter was diagnosed with Autism this year and it has been a rollercoaster. There have been times when I felt really alone as I felt that those around me just didn't get it. I was sent the details of the SEND cafe by the Autism Advisory Team and decided to be brave and give it a go. I could never have anticipated how amazing it would be. I have found myself looking forward to each cafe. That time on a Friday morning has been a time of respite doing lovely crafts, a time to reflect, a safe place to share things that have happened and of course lovely cake! My mental health is in a much better place and the coffee mornings have definitely contributed to me feeling more positive about the journey ahead. Thank you Leila and team for running this amazing morning.”
Melissa, Newbury
“I really enjoy visiting the café, I find it a really safe place to connect with other parents and relax with many of the lovely activities set out each time. I have found it really interesting and rewarding to hear other people's journeys and share valuable information and ideas. I always leave feeling refreshed, understood and supported. Thank you so much for providing a lovely set up that so many parent carers can benefit from.”
Kelly, Newbury
