A UNIQUE cafe is set to be launched to help youngsters with additional needs get the workplace experience they need.

The Phabulous Cafe will take Leigh by storm and young people will be given the opportunity to work in hospitality roles in a bid to add to their CV.

Teenagers will also be given training in the cafe, which will operate from Leigh Road.

The Phabulous Cafe will run alongside the Phab shop, in Rayleigh High Street, which also gives young people with additional needs the opportunity to gain training in retail and interact with customers.

The training they receive is free.

It is hoped the cafe will open the public in May.

Jenny Drewer, the founder of Rayleigh’s Phab shop, put the idea of a cafe into action with Sandra Burrett, a nurse, whose son, Christopher, currently volunteers at the shop.

Ms Drewer said: “Just like our much-loved shop in Rayleigh, this is about giving young people with additional needs the chance to build confidence, work as part of a vibrant team and have the chance to shine.

“Not only can customers enjoy a ‘phabulous’ warm welcome and food, but they’ll be served by ‘phabulous’ people.

“We want to give it some TLC so if anyone is happy to donate their time, DIY skills or help us raise much-needed funds, we would love to hear from you and you’ll be repaid with the most delicious tea and cake.”

To get the cafe off the ground, staff and volunteers from the shop completed a sponsored walk from Leigh train station to the cafe’s location on Leigh Road to raise funds.

Ms Drewer added: “Despite all the different challenges they face and a very hilly ascent, every single volunteer reached the finish line. We’re so proud of them all.

“It was a big achievement and together we raised more than £1,000.

“We would love to hear from anyone in the area who would like to become a volunteer and help run the cafe,”

To donate, visit wonderful.org/charity/thephabshop.