Spotlight on…Mencap Stay and Play

Mencap Family Engagement Project are running a SEND Stay and Play group for families of children ages 0-6 with SEND or emerging needs, held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday or each month 10am – 11.30am at North Family Hub, Ashton, OL7 0LL 10.00-11.30am. 

The session is held in the early years play room with a wide range of age appropriate resources and activities. They support families of children aged 0-6 with SEND and emerging needs. No diagnosis or pathway is necessary.

Children attending can safely explore an inclusive and secure environment. The dedicated play space is designed with young children in mind and has a range of appropriate resources. All sessions are free-play and the children are able to explore and experience the world using their own ideas and interests, at their own level.

Parents attending the sessions can access their peer support and meet other parents going through similar experiences. All of our team have lived experience of being a SEND parent and have been through many shared experiences. They can offer a listening ear, validation, support and advice in a relaxed environment that is free from judgement.

Parents who attend have gained support and advice from the team which has empowered them to advocate for support for their children. Having someone to talk to who understands has proved invaluable in some cases and we have seen supportive relationships and friendships develop between parents.

“I love the session as to be honest I don’t tend to go to regular play sessions. I much prefer being alongside other parents that ‘get it’ which doesn’t always happen in other places.”

Any parent or carer of a child under six years old with SEND or emerging needs can come and join them. None of their sessions require booking and they are free. Families are asked to register in order to access Mencap’s full offer, but there is no need to complete this before their first session as it can be done in person or following the session if they feel the project would be useful to them. The registration form can be found here.

Contact details:

Jennifer Watson: Family Engagement Worker 07977162375 Jennifer.watson@mencap.org.uk

Project email address: familyengagementgm@mencap.org.uk

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/familyengagementtameside