Provision of sensory support boxes at Mid and East Antrim Council buildings moves step closer
Mid and East Antrim councillors have backed a motion for a sensory support box to be made available in the reception of council buildings in the borough.
The motion was proposed by Bannside DUP Councillor Tyler Hoey and seconded by Ballymena TUV Cllr Matthew Armstrong at last week’s meeting of the borough council.
Cllr Hoey, a member of the council’s Equality and Inclusive Sub-Committee, said: “I want our borough to become a leader when it comes to this issue so that everyone is included.”
He asked for officers to work with voluntary groups to make sure suitable items are included in the kit.
Cllr Armstrong said: “This motion rightly seeks to strengthen the council’s own commitment to accessibility and inclusion in the form of sensory support boxes in our public buildings.
“For many individuals with special educational needs, including autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences and anxiety, public spaces can be unpredictable and overwhelming.
“A crowded reception area, bright lights, sudden noises or simply the unfamiliarity of a civic building can trigger distress that makes it difficult for them to access the services they rely on.
“A sensory support box containing items such as noise reducing headphones, fidget tools visual cue cards or tactile objects offers immediate relief. They are small, inexpensive tools but they can make a difference between a resident feeling overwhelmed and a resident feeling safe, calm and able to participate.
“The benefits to the SEND community are profound. These supports help individuals regulate their emotions, reduce anxiety and remain grounded during moments of sensory overload. They make our public buildings genuinely accessible, not just in policy but also in lived experience."
He added: “This proposal also builds directly on the excellent work that has been carried out by our inclusion and equality sub-committee which has consistently championed inclusive practice, equality of access and community centred policy across the borough.”
Cllr Armstrong proposed an amendment the council also “engages pro-actively” with business owners and Ballymena BID locally, to explore further roll-out across town centres.
He stated: “By working collaboratively, we can encourage shops, cafes and service providers to adopt similar sensory-friendly supports to create a consistent welcoming environment throughout our commercial areas.”
Larne Lough Alliance Cllr Maeve Donnelly proposed a further amendment for sensory rooms to also be provided in leisure centres.
“It’s a more sustainable option and would be welcomed by families and would be straightforward in terms of maintenance and upkeep,” she said.
“Children who attend special schools are used to utilising sensory rooms which can be stimulating or calm, whatever’s needed by the user.”
Braid Sinn Fein Cllr Archie Rae said sensory toy boxes would provide a “settling in period” at council premises, if these items are available. Larne Lough Ulster Unionist Cllr Roy Beggs said if, for a relatively small amount, sensory toys could be available to “make life better for parents and children, it would be a very worthwhile investment”.
Bannside Ulster Unionist Cllr Jackson Minford said these small items can be very beneficial to children, adding he was aware of the benefits and he was “fully behind this motion”.
Mid and East Antrim Mayor Bannside Alderman Tom Gordon said the proposal would have a financial assessment by officers and brought back to council for a final decision.
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter