TOTS Early Years Community (TEYC), a parent-led organisation supporting babies, toddlers, preschool children and their families, has recently become a registered charity (Charity No. 1218704).
Founded by Monmouth mum Annie Hutchings, TEYC was inspired by her family’s experience of navigating her daughter Annabel’s diagnosis with an ultra-rare neurodevelopmental condition. Through that journey, Annie became increasingly aware of the isolation many families can face and the lack of inclusive early years opportunities where all children and families feel genuinely welcomed and supported.
What began as a small stay-and-play session has since grown into a thriving community charity supporting families across Monmouthshire through its weekly Tea & Tots and Together Tots sessions.
Tea & Tots provides a welcoming space for babies, toddlers, preschool children and their carers to connect through play, friendship and community. Together Tots was later established to provide an inclusive early years space for children with additional needs, disabilities, developmental differences or medical complexities alongside their siblings and families.
Today, TEYC welcomes around 20–30 children and their families each week, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers. The charity has secured funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, developed strong partnerships with local organisations and professionals, and is increasingly recognised by health, education and family support services who signpost families to its sessions.
Earlier this year, TEYC was featured by The National Lottery Community Fund as part of its ‘Share Your Story’ campaign, highlighting the impact of its work within the local community (you can find details of this on their Facebook page).
As a newly registered charity, TEYC is preparing to deliver its first summer holiday programme, Together in Summer, ensuring families continue to access friendship, support and inclusive play throughout the school holidays when many other activities and services pause.
Alongside supporting local families, TEYC is always keen to welcome new volunteers, connect with local organisations and reach more families who may benefit from its work. The charity also has ambitious plans for the future, including new opportunities for community connection, inclusive family support and partnership working across Monmouthshire.
Annie Hutchings, Founder and Lead Volunteer of TEYC, said: “TEYC was created from a belief that every child and every family deserve to feel they belong.
“Becoming a registered charity is an exciting milestone, but for us it is really about being able to reach more families, strengthen our support, and continue building a community where everyone is welcome.
“We have many exciting plans for the future and are incredibly grateful to every family, volunteer, supporter and funder who has helped us reach this point.”
Families can find out more about their work, upcoming sessions and community activities through their website channels:
- Facebook: Tea & Tots | Together Tots | Tots Early Years Community
- Instagram: @totsearlyyearscommunity
