Two mums set up new SEND centre for families

A brand-new centre for children, young people and young adults with SEND and their families will open in Coventry in October.

NEST Coventry, on Falkland Close, was set up by two mums, Lindsay Foskett and Jade McCluskey, who wanted to create a space for children with autism, ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions.

McCluskey said: "Our main aspect is the sensory gym, but we also have five alternative classrooms for children that need to have a break from mainstream school."

It is a Community Interest Company (CIC), with both women directors, and will be open to primary school-aged children and their families during the day, and young adults in the evenings.

The centre has been made possible thanks to a grant of nearly £20,000 from the National Lottery Fund, as well as fundraising efforts by the two women.

Foskett, who has two children with neurodivergent conditions, really wanted to build something for other Coventry families with SEND needs.

She said: "We have created the centre from our own lived experience as parents and from knowing just how difficult it can be to find places where our children genuinely feel understood, included and able to be themselves."

The former commercial property has been converted into various spaces with different themes and colours, such as a tranquility room, areas where alternative provision will be provided, and a sensory room with swings, a climbing wall and sensory equipment.

McCluskey, who owns Wishing Well Day Care in Canley and also works in foster care, is hoping the work will be completed in time for the centre's grand opening in October.

She said: "We still need all our classroom equipment and our cafeteria area. We have a silver suite room and a golden gateway room for families and parents to do workshops and learn things, so we need equipment for those rooms as well."

Once it's fully operational, the centre hopes to provide alternative provision for up to 25 primary-aged children during the day.

In the evenings, young adults will be able to take part in arts and crafts, enjoy karaoke and a disco, and even try their hand at DJing thanks to a bespoke DJ booth.