Family-centred, not drop-off
Parents and carers stay with their children throughout every session. That means more flexibility, more reassurance and the right support for every child's individual needs.
Community · Connection · Support
Welcoming activities for SEND children & families across the Dengie
We’re a parent-led registered charity on the Dengie Peninsula. We run inclusive, affordable activities close to home so every child can take part, make friends and feel like they belong.
everyone’s welcome
Who we’re here for
Children and young people with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, sensory differences, developmental delays, complex medical needs and other additional needs, along with their parents, carers and siblings.
Inclusion
Family-centred
Low-demand approach
Accessible
Safe
Affordable
Community-led
Neuro-affirming
come and join us
Upcoming events
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Previous events
people you'll meet
Familiar faces
Here are some of the friendly people you might see at our sessions.
Tara
Founder & Trustee
Tara loves bringing people together and creating welcoming places where everyone feels they belong. She founded SEND in the Dengie and also helped establish Lulu's Café in Southminster, another place built around community and connection. She also has a labradoodle called Dotti, who is the friendliest dog in the world!
Emma
Trustee & Operations Lead
Emma helps organise all our activities and is usually there to welcome families when they arrive. Behind the scenes, she keeps everything running, from planning events and looking after the website to working with volunteers and making sure everyone has a great experience. At home, she has a dog called Beau and a fluffy cat called Casper!
Katherine
Trustee & Safeguarding Lead
Katherine helps make sure everyone at SEND in the Dengie feels safe, welcome and included. She loves the outdoors and also runs the inclusive SEND football sessions with Burnham Ramblers Football Club.
Lucy
Cooking Sessions Lead
Lucy runs our cooking sessions and loves helping children build confidence in the kitchen at their own pace. There's no pressure to get things perfect – just fun, food and plenty of creativity!
Anne
Support Worker
Anne is a familiar face at our sessions and always happy to lend a hand, whether that's behind the scenes or on the day. She has a calm, kind way with children and families that puts everyone at ease. Anne is also our Deputy Safeguarding Lead and a qualified paediatric first aider. Outside of SEND in the Dengie, she loves being creative and spending time with her Golden Retriever, Buddy.
where we meet
Our spaces
Take a look at where we meet so you know what to expect on the day.
Knightswood Community Hub
Unit 2, Winterdale Manor Enterprise, Southminster Road, Althorne, CM3 6YH
A small, cosy space that feels just like a living room, with comfy sofas, soft chairs and a rainbow rug on the floor. It's usually calm and quiet, and you'll walk straight into the main room when you arrive. If you need a few minutes to settle in, that's absolutely okay.
Latchingdon Village Hall
Burnham Road, Latchingdon, CM3 6EX
A spacious village hall with a large open wooden floor and high ceilings, making it great for active sessions and activities with plenty of room to move around. It can sometimes sound a little echoey, but it opens straight onto a playing field with a play park, giving families plenty of outdoor space if they need a break. There's a wheelchair-accessible ramp at the entrance and plenty of parking outside.
our story
About us
SEND in the Dengie was set up by parents who know first-hand how far families on the Dengie Peninsula have to travel for SEND provision. We wanted to change that, and build something local where everyone feels welcome.
We’re a registered charity (Charitable Incorporated Organisation), with several successful grants secured and regular activities already underway.
Our mission is simple: better opportunities for children and young people with SEND and their families across the Dengie, through activities that are genuinely welcoming, affordable and fun.
- Parent-led & informed by lived experience
- Flexible & understanding of complex needs
- Non-judgemental: it's about taking part, not getting it right
- Local venues across the Dengie Peninsula
- Community-led with strong governance
what to expect
How our sessions work
We try to make every session feel calm, familiar and pressure-free.
Low-demand approach
Small groups, clear communication and no pressure to join in. Children can take part at their own pace and in their own way.
Easy, affordable booking
Find an event and tap Book your place to book securely through BookWhen. You’ll get a confirmation email with everything you need.
Tell us what helps
Not sure if a session is right for your child? Just get in touch. We’re happy to chat it through and make sure we’re prepared before the day.
get involved
Support our community
Every bit of help means more children and families can take part.
Join our community
Follow us and connect with other families in our Facebook group.
Join on FacebookWith grateful thanks to our funders
- Sport England
- The National Lottery Community Fund
- Groundwork Grassroots
- Essex Community Foundation
- Fowler Smith & Jones Trust
- and other local funders