Liverpool Coffee Shop Transforms Lives with Barista Training

A coffee shop in Liverpool is gaining national attention not only for its exceptional beverages but also for its commitment to transforming the lives of young people with special educational needs (SEN). Parliament Square Coffee, founded by husband-and-wife team Chris and Hayley Commerford, has received the Futures Inspirers Award from the Witherslack Group, a prominent provider of education for children with SEN. This award highlights businesses that support neurodiversity and foster aspirational futures for young individuals.

The Commerfords established the first Parliament Square Coffee location in the Baltic Triangle in June 2023. The café combines high-quality coffee with a seasonal brunch menu crafted by Chris, who has a background as a chef. A second location opened on Clarence Street in the Georgian Quarter, where they launched the PSC Academy. This barista training programme aims to equip young people aged 15 to 18 with valuable, employable skills.

Chris, originally from West Derby, shared his enthusiasm for the venture, stating, “I’ve been involved in hospitality for quite a long time. This is the first standalone coffee shop that I’ve done.” He believes the area has significant potential for growth, noting that while it may not yet have high foot traffic, “over the next few years, I think the area’s really up-and-coming.” Hayley, from Huyton, added that the new residential developments in the area made opening a coffee shop a natural choice.

The couple identified a market gap for establishments that excelled in both coffee and food. Hayley explained, “If we’d go out for food, we’d either get a really good coffee or we’d get really good food – we couldn’t really get both together.” Chris echoed her sentiment, stating, “When I’ve gone into other coffee shops and brunch places, nowhere has ever really impressed me.”

Beyond providing outstanding coffee, their mission emphasizes education and access. 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. While open to all young people, the training is particularly tailored to accommodate those with SEN and neurodiverse conditions, collaborating with organizations like the ADHD Foundation to ensure inclusive learning.

Chris remarked, “Too often these challenges are seen as obstacles. They might actually be the strengths that make individuals perfect for certain roles.” He highlighted a personal success story, sharing that one of their best baristas had high-functioning autism and excelled in his position due to his passion for coffee.

Parliament Square Coffee’s commitment to supporting young people extends beyond its training programme. The café has already reached over 400 pupils across 16 schools within the Witherslack Group through initiatives like the Futures Ambassador Sessions. These sessions allow employers to visit schools and share insights into various career opportunities. Additionally, Work Inspirational Visits provide students with firsthand experiences of different workplaces.

Chris expressed his excitement about offering this innovative training, stating, “While it’s nice to receive the award and recognition, more important is making a difference in people’s lives and providing opportunities within the coffee industry.”

The café has quickly become a local favourite in both the Baltic Triangle and Georgian Quarter. Hayley described the vibrant community atmosphere, saying, “It’s very much become a community now – the same people come in every day. We love being part of it.”

The design of Parliament Square Coffee encourages diverse experiences, offering seating options that cater to different preferences—whether patrons seek privacy to work or wish to engage with staff while enjoying views of the Anglican Cathedral.

As Chris and Hayley look to the future, they plan to expand with new locations while maintaining their focus on quality and a welcoming atmosphere. Chris concluded, “We’re not reinventing the wheel—there’s a lot of other places that do what we do. But I just think that, in the area we’re in, it’s a really welcoming place. The location is magnificent.”