‘Heartbreaking’ news as two Yorkshire playcentres which specialise in SEN children close
Two SEN-friendly play centres in Yorkshire have shared with parents and carers that they are closing due to personal reasons and ‘ongoing operational costs.’
SENsory Playworld in Morley is closing, following the closure this week of Halifax-based LittleLegz SEN centre.
SENsory Playworld posted their news on Facebook with “heavy hearts”.
“After much deliberation and exploring every possible option, we’ve made the very difficult decision to close our doors,” a statement said.
“This hasn’t been an easy choice. Unfortunately, high ongoing operational costs and a number of unforeseen personal challenges have made it unsustainable for us to continue running the centre to the standard our families deserve.”
The popular Morley playcentre had hoped to continue operating until the end of summer but it has been forced to close on July 31.
The statement continued: “We started this journey with love, lived experience, and a vision to support neurodivergent children and their families and thanks to you, that vision became a reality.
“The warmth, community, and shared understanding that’s grown here has been beyond anything we imagined, and we are truly grateful. We know how important this kind of space is for so many families in Leeds and beyond.”
Hundreds of people online shared their sadness on hearing the news. One follower said they hope they are able to reopen somewhere else.
They said: “So sorry and saddened to hear this. Please keep searching and networking to see if you could open elsewhere, as you guys are definitely onto something big here.
“Massive gap in the market for this as well as the high demand for us SEN families to go somewhere that our children can be included, happy, and safe. Good luck and thank you for all that you have already done.”
Another parent said it was “heartbreaking” for so many families with neurodivergent children.
She said: “We have loved coming over the last year. Wishing you luck with whatever lies in the future.”
This week, LittleLegz in Halifax also closed, the first of two major blows for parents and carers of SEN young people.
“We will continue to offer private sessions, parties, holiday clubs, and day services for our clients,” it said.
“Regrettably, we are no longer able to sustain our cherished sessions due to the significant time and effort required, with health considerations playing a crucial role in this decision.”
LittleLegz SEN centre posted: “It is with a heavy heart that we must announce the closure of LittleLegz as a public SEN play gym, effective Monday, July 21st, 2025, due to the owners' health concerns.”