What would your dream ‘third space’ look like?

Imagine a space where you felt so comfortable, it was as if things were designed just for you. All your physical and sensory needs were catered to and you didn't feel judged for being disabled. I have a dream of more ‘third spaces’ like this in our communities. 

The idea of ‘third spaces’ was conceptualised by sociologist Ray Oldenburg. ‘Third places’ are public places that aren’t your house (that is your first place) or your job or school (that is your second place). Third spaces are where people can be social and feel a sense of community. Examples of this are cafés, parks, libraries, and community centres.

My dream is to own and manage a café that is also a ‘third space’. I would call it The Ladybird Café; ladybirds are one of my special interests. I had this idea because I was wondering what kind of job would keep me happy while also being sensory-friendly. I have also had a lot of experience at cafes where it’s too loud and noisy and I can’t eat anything in the cabinet.

At my café, each table would have a box of fidgets for people to use. I would put a box on every table to make them more accessible.

The entrance would have a ramp and a lift if there is a second level. The café would use natural light and have ambient lighting when it gets dark and dreary outside. I would make sure the toilets are accessible and have dim lighting. There would also be an outdoor space.

The food would be sensory-friendly too because don’t you hate it when you walk into a café and walk up to the cabinet and there is nothing that you can predict the taste or texture of? Or you order something on the menu and you have to ask for it without certain things, because it has so many other things added? I would keep the menu consistent and ingredients/recipe as consistent as possible. For example, I’d use the same cheese in the macaroni cheese and if I had to change an ingredient for any reason I would post it on social media.

I would make the food and drinks affordable as some of us live on a benefit and eating out can be a bit dear. When you are on a benefit you only have a limited amount of money, but coming to my café would be affordable.

I would offer employment to the disability community and to my friends who have a disability. Getting a job can be difficult for people like us.

I would have colouring in as an option at the tables and people can put them on the wall if they want to. Customers can ask for a photo with staff and we can have a photo wall.

I would make it pet-friendly because some people have dogs with them. For example guide dogs and dogs in general can help when someone is having a meltdown and in emotional distress.

You can be yourself at my café. It would not be a judging café so if you are holding a toy for example we will not judge because it is different for everyone how their disability affects them.

I hope one day The Ladybird Café becomes a reality.

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