The SEND Den is dedicated to enhancing lives across Lancaster and the wider community by creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where people of all ages and abilities can connect, regulate, grow and feel a true sense of belonging.

Born from lived experience and professional practice, The SEND Den was created in response to the clear lack of accessible, sensory-friendly spaces for children, young people, adults and families with additional needs. Too often, families face limited options, long waiting lists or environments that simply don’t meet real sensory and physical needs. We exist to change that.
We are currently working towards opening our permanent SEND Den home at Ryelands Park, with a planned opening in May 2026 (date to be confirmed). This space will become a multi-sensory, wellbeing and community hub designed to support regulation, movement, play, relaxation and social connection all within a safe, inclusive and judgement-free environment.

Alongside developing our permanent home, The SEND Den delivers pop-up sensory sessions across Lancashire and Cumbria areas. These pop-ups allow us to reach families who may not yet be able to access our main site and ensure support is available while our permanent space is being prepared. They also help us respond flexibly to community need and reach areas where sensory provision is currently limited or unavailable.

The SEND Den is led by an experienced team with extensive backgrounds in SEND, sensory processing differences, education, wellbeing and family support. We understand the complexity of disabilities, the importance of flexible and inclusive environments, and the vital role safe spaces play in reducing isolation and supporting mental wellbeing. Our work is shaped by both professional knowledge and real-life experience, ensuring everything we offer is practical, purposeful and genuinely inclusive.

At its heart, The SEND Den is about community. We are building a space and a network where individuals feel understood, families feel supported, and connections can thrive. Our commitment is to listen, adapt and grow alongside the communities we serve, ensuring our provision remains relevant, accessible and truly needed.