Posted on: 8th May 2025

SEN-TASTIC’ is a parent support group for families with children with additional needs, providing a monthly coffee morning. 

Emma and Penny, both parents of SEN children, who work and worship at the church, started the group 18 months ago, responding to their own families’ needs and the needs in the community around them. 

In the area, there are many parents raising children with complex needs who struggle as they advocate and care for their kids. 

‘SEN-TASTIC’ started to create a safe place for these parents to share experiences and socialise together. 

Jo Young, part of the diocesan Children, Young People and Families Team, met Emma and Penny through our diocesan Additional Needs Learning Community, which they are part of and supports those who work with those with additional needs.

Jo went along to a recent SEN-TASTIC coffee morning so she could see the impact the group was having. 

Jo said: “It is wonderful to see how St Luke’s has identified a need in their community and how God has guided them to meet it in such a beautiful way. 

“The church is a place where families under pressure can find support and acceptance.”

Amongst the group, there are parents who have experience in applying for Disability Living Allowance and looking to get their child an EHCP (Educational Health and Care needs assessment); they share the lessons they learnt along the way to others who are just starting out. 

The group invite organisations such as Leeds SENDIASS, SEND Navigators and local councillors in to give advice. 

Parents of SEND children can struggle to make time to look after their own wellbeing, so recently Emma and Penny invited a specialist in mental wellbeing to deliver a session for the group, as well as organising a wonderful family Christmas party and a visit to the farm at Temple Newsam. 

Read the full story here.