Carter’s Sunflowers - a specialist nursery for children living with autism - is searching for a new home after being handed its notice on its current sublease.

The Ofsted-rated 'outstanding' nursery is currently operating from Ludwick Family Centre in Hall Grove, Welwyn Garden City, but must leave by July 31.

The not-for-profit provider currently educates 24 children, and has an additional 20 on its waiting list.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: A popcorn activity at Carter's Sunflowers.A popcorn activity at Carter's Sunflowers. (Image: Lucy Oliveira / Carter's Sunflowers)

These are children who are either "unable to cope in a mainstream preschool/nursery or have been asked to leave".

Carter’s Sunflowers has now appealed for land or a building that can host its operation.

Lucy Oliveira, co-founder of the nursery, told this paper: "As you can imagine this was a huge shock to us and has left us in a desperate situation to find a new premises, so we can continue to support the vulnerable families in Hertfordshire.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Carter's Sunflowers is a specialist nursery for children living with autism.Carter's Sunflowers is a specialist nursery for children living with autism. (Image: Lucy Oliveira / Carter's Sunflowers)

"We have contacted the council and they have said there are no available properties.

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"We are looking for a new home for Carter’s Sunflowers to continue to offer a much needed service for our amazing children and families in Hertfordshire.

"We are looking for something in the Welwyn and Hatfield area that will enable us to continue to run our three classrooms and if possible, take on more children that are currently on our waiting list.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Carter's Sunflowers will need to leave its current premises in July.Carter's Sunflowers will need to leave its current premises in July. (Image: Lucy Oliveira / Carter's Sunflowers)

"We need something that is 1,500 sq ft or larger with an outdoor space."