New Send cafe a 'massive getaway' for parents

The cafe opened after growing demand for support for special educational needs and disabilities (Send) families

A new cafe for families of children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send) is "a massive getaway", according to one parent.

The Den Coffee House opened in Taunton, Somerset on Saturday. It has an inclusive play space and offers free legal advice.

Coffee, Chat & Support Community Interest Company, which is led by parents, said it opened the cafe due to rising demand for Send family support across the county.

Speaking at the cafe, parent Jolie Howe said: "It's big. Even for myself it's been a massive getaway, it's nice to know we're not alone as parents."

Away from coffee and cake, the cafe hosts Send clinics and provides emotional support for families.

Claire Naylor, owner of The Den Coffee House, said: "To hear the feedback is phenomenal.

"To know now those families can go home reassured there's somewhere they can go and speak to someone - a person who understands, has empathy, but also can signpost correctly. [To] be there for when they're feeling a little bit low.

"So it's amazing to finally have a space."