Liverpool Coffee Shop Transforms Lives with Barista Training

A coffee shop in Liverpool is earning national acclaim not only for its specialty beverages but also for its innovative approach to empowering young people with special educational needs (SEN). Parliament Square Coffee, founded by husband-and-wife team Chris and Hayley Commerford, recently received the Futures Inspirers Award from the Witherslack Group, a prominent UK organization dedicated to the education of children with SEN. This award highlights businesses that champion neurodiversity and support aspirational futures.

The Commerfords opened their first location in the Baltic Triangle in June 2023, combining specialty coffee with a seasonal brunch menu crafted by Chris, a former chef. A second venue followed last year on Clarence Street in the Georgian Quarter, where they launched the PSC Academy. This initiative provides barista training aimed at equipping 15 to 18-year-olds with valuable, employable skills.

Chris, who hails from West Derby, expressed their motivation for establishing the coffee shop: “We’ve been involved in hospitality for quite a long time. When the unit became available, we jumped at it. It has lots of potential.” He believes that the area is on the verge of development, despite current foot traffic levels.

Hayley, originally from Huyton, noted the necessity for a coffee shop amidst the area’s new residential developments. The couple identified a gap in the market for a venue that excels in both coffee and food. “If we went out for food, we’d either get great coffee or great food, but not both,” she explained.

Chris concurred, adding, “I’ve gone into other coffee shops and brunch places, and nothing has truly impressed me. I thought, ‘I can do this just as well, if not better.’”

Empowering Young People through Training

Beyond serving high-quality coffee, the Commerfords are dedicated to education and accessibility. The PSC Academy offers a one-day Level 1 course and a more comprehensive three-day Level 2 course accredited by the Speciality Coffee Association. The training is inclusive, specifically designed to accommodate young people with SEN and neurodiverse conditions. Collaborating with organizations such as the ADHD Foundation, they ensure that training is tailored to individual needs.

Chris remarked, “Challenges are often seen as obstacles, but they can actually be strengths. One of my best baristas had high-functioning autism and was fantastic at his job.” He emphasized that all job roles and courses should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their challenges, and highlighted the importance of adapting training methodologies.

Parliament Square Coffee’s commitment to supporting young people extends beyond their own training program. They have already assisted over 400 pupils from 16 schools within the Witherslack Group through initiatives like the Futures Ambassador Sessions, where employers share career insights, and Work Inspirational Visits that allow students to explore workplaces firsthand.

Chris noted, “It’s exciting to offer this training and create opportunities that haven’t been available before. While the award is nice, the real importance lies in making a difference in people’s lives.”

A Community Hub in Liverpool

The coffee shop has quickly become a beloved establishment in both the Baltic Triangle and Georgian Quarter. Hayley shared, “It’s developed into a community space where regulars come in every day. We love being part of it; it’s incredibly rewarding.”

The venue is designed to offer various experiences, whether patrons seek privacy to work or a spot to engage with staff while enjoying views of the Anglican Cathedral.

With plans to expand their business, Chris and Hayley are committed to maintaining a balance between low staff numbers and high-quality service. Chris stated, “We’re not reinventing the wheel; there are many places that do what we do. But the warmth of our location makes it special.”

Parliament Square Coffee stands as a testament to how a local business can not only thrive in a competitive market but also make a significant impact in the community by championing inclusivity and providing training opportunities for the next generation.