‘I moved here to feel safe’: Ballymena mum speaks of fear after burglary

High Street, Ballymena

A young mother who moved to Ballymena to rebuild her life has spoken of her terror after a burglar broke into her home while she slept — just metres away from her bed.

The woman, who lives in the High Street area of Ballymena, said the incident happened in the early hours of Monday, 13th October, and has left her frightened to return home with her five-year-old daughter.

She had moved to the town only recently, hoping to give her child a safe and stable home after fleeing an environment where she faced the threat of domestic violence.

“I moved here to give my child a home after my last place was deemed unsafe,” she said.

“I believed this would be a fresh start, free from the threat of domestic violence — but instead it’s opened up a whole new load of issues. I’m now afraid for my baby’s safety if this were to happen again.”

The intruder stole two mobile phones, 100 cigarettes, a purse containing £560 — money she had saved for her child’s communion dress and to pay a carpet fitter — as well as around €30 from a cup.

Although she was grateful that her daughter had been staying elsewhere that night, the young mother said the break-in had left her shaken and fearful in her own home.

“Knowing I was in bed while someone was in my apartment has me feeling sick, to be honest,” she said.

“At night, I lie awake hearing every noise and jump anytime I hear footsteps outside. I can’t even leave my window on the safety catch when I shower or fold laundry in another room. I work long hours and come home in the dark, full of anxiety in case it’s happened again.”

Despite the shock and sleepless nights, the young mother said she has been touched by the kindness of those living nearby.

“Thankfully the neighbours have been lovely to me and very supportive,” she said.

The woman, who works in the homeless addiction sector and is herself a recovered addict, said she feels compassion for the person responsible — but remains deeply unsettled by what has happened.

“I really do feel for the person who broke into my property, but that doesn’t take away from the fear and uncertainty I’m left with,” she said.

“I’ve put so much into making this apartment a lovely home for me and my child, and now I’m afraid the system will deem it unsuitable for her.”

Police investigation

The Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed they are continuing to investigate the burglary.

A spokesperson said:

“At approximately 1:35am on Monday morning, 13th October, a report was received that a flat had been entered.

“A number of items are understood to have been taken, including a sum of cash, cigarettes and two mobile phones. No damage was caused to the property.

“Enquiries are ongoing, and anyone with information about what happened or who noticed suspicious behaviour in the area is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 60 13/10/25.

“Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.”

A life rebuilt — now rocked by F

Fear

For the young mother, the incident represents more than a simple burglary — it’s a blow to her hope of building a new life free from fear and instability.

Having already overcome addiction and escaped domestic abuse, she said the break-in has left her questioning her sense of safety and whether Ballymena can truly be the place where she and her daughter can start over.

“I wanted a home where my child could grow up feeling safe,” she said. “Now, I’m not sure I can even promise her that.”