Teesdale SEND Stars

Teesdale SEND Stars is a parent-led, volunteer-run group for children and young people with complex Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and the families who support them.

Founded in February 2026 by local parents, Teesdale SEND stars is a safe non-judemental group which was created to provide a welcoming, understanding space where families can connect with others who share similar experiences, build friendships and access opportunities that can often be difficult to find elsewhere.

Sessions take place every Sunday from 10am – 12pm and are shaped around the needs of the children.

and families who attend. Children are free to play, explore and socialise at their own pace, while parents and carers have the opportunity to meet, chat and support one another.

The sessions offer a range of sensory and physical play equipment, including trampettes, therapy balls, tactile play activities, tuff trays and plenty of open space to move around safely. Children can access the main hall, enjoy the secure enclosed garden, or choose a quieter area for reading, drawing or using a tablet. The group also hopes to introduce a pop-up sensory room in the future.

Play equipment varies from week to week depending on the weather, the season and the needs of the children attending.

The venue is fully accessible, with accessible toilets and disabled parking available nearby via the Morrisons car park.

Families also have the chance to spend time with Alfie, the group’s therapy dog, who visits every fortnight.

Sessions take place when the building is closed to the general public, creating a calm, safe environment for families. Refreshments including tea, coffee, juice, biscuits and crisps are provided.

A suggested donation of £3.50 per family helps support the running of the group and enables sessions to remain affordable and accessible to those who need them.

To find out more or book a place, visit the Teesdale SEND Stars Facebook page.