When families step outside school, finding community, support, expert guidance and creative opportunities can mean piecing together a whole new network. Broadleaf brings these connections together in one welcoming place, where children, young people and parents can build friendships, explore their interests and find people who understand.
Based in the New Forest, Broadleaf Family Hub CIC is a parent-run, neurodivergent-led and neuro-affirming community for the whole family, with additional specialist youth provision for neurodivergent and anxious teenagers, and those who need a softer space to land.
They work locally alongside families, regionally to build community and partnerships, and nationally to contribute to policy discussions around home education, neurodivergence and family support. Throughout their work, they champion the knowledge and lived experience of children, young people and parents.
Their community has grown over more than 16 years, shaped by the experience and expertise of home-educating families. Some have chosen home education from the beginning; others join because school has become inaccessible to their children. All are welcomed with warmth and respect for their individual paths.
Their programme includes performance, musical theatre, music, visual art, hands-on science and nature exploration, alongside social groups and opportunities for parents to connect. Families contribute their skills, interests and ideas, helping shape what they offer.
Consent and choice are central to their approach. Young people can take things slowly, explore an interest or simply be alongside others, supported by familiar faces and trusted relationships. Partnerships with health, university and cultural organisations connect families with wider opportunities and help their voices inform research and practice.
Above all, Broadleaf offers continuity; somewhere families can grow together, build lasting friendships and feel valued for who they are.
Workshops, events, celebrations
Their autumn programme brings children, young people and parents together through performance, musical theatre, music, visual art, nature art, hands-on science and outdoor exploration.
Their specialist youth groups offer neurodivergent and anxious young people a softer space to land, with time to develop friendships, explore their interests and participate at their own pace. Alongside these, family groups offer opportunities for children to play and create while parents build friendships and share their experience.
An NHS health partnership also brings informal health clinics, vaccinations, advice and support into a familiar community setting, helping families access connections that can be harder to find outside school.
Follow this link to see all current activities and booking information
They are also looking to expand and are seeking a dedicated, reliably available space, particularly in Totton, where their community can put down lasting roots. They would love to hear from organisations with potential space or an interest in working together and are very happy to share a building, provided they have a consistent space of our own.
If you think you could support with this, get in touch with: info@broadleaf.org.uk
The Broadleaf Approach
How they bring community, opportunities and support together for families outside school, with relationships, consent and belonging at the heart of our approach.
Follow this link to learn more about the Broadleaf Approach
What people think about Broadleaf
“I don’t think you realise the impact you have on not just the young person, but their entire family. Broadleaf is a profoundly healing place.” Parent of a 15-year-old
