Sensory Kids honoured with UK’s highest volunteer award

The Committee and Volunteers from Sensory Kids

A volunteer-led organisation supporting children, adults and families in Co Antrim has received the highest honour of its kind in the UK, recognising years of life-changing work for people with disabilities.

Sensory Kids has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service, a prestigious national recognition celebrating the impact of its inclusive programmes and community support.

Prestigious honour presented at special ceremony

The award was formally presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim, David McCorkell KStJ, during a ceremony hosted by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council at The Old Courthouse in Antrim on 26 March.

The accolade represents the highest recognition given to volunteer-led organisations across the UK, highlighting the scale and significance of Sensory Kids’ work within the local community.

Creating safe, inclusive spaces for all

The Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim greets the committee from Sensory Kids

The Committee from Sensory Kids are joined by the Deputy Mayor and the Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim

Sensory Kids provides a safe and supportive environment where children, young people and adults with disabilities can play, learn and develop.

Through sensory stimulation activities, the organisation helps improve wellbeing and quality of life, offering spaces where individuals can engage in experiences tailored to their needs.

Its services extend beyond activity provision, delivering vital support to parents and carers while promoting greater understanding of disabilities within the wider community.

Supporting some of the most vulnerable in the community

Founder of Sensory Kids, Mary Connor is pictured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service Crystal

Founder, Kathryn Davidson is presented with flowers from the Deputy Mayor and Lord-Lieutenant

The organisation works with autistic children and young people, adults with disabilities, and individuals living with dementia across the Borough.

By addressing social isolation and fostering connection, Sensory Kids enables participants to build skills and confidence, helping them better navigate everyday life.

Families also benefit from emotional support and practical guidance, strengthening communication and relationships within the home environment.

Advocacy and awareness at the heart of its mission

The Committee from Sensory Kids are pictured with their Award

(L-R) Kathryn Davidson, Mary Connor, Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim, David McCorkell KStJ, Lauren Young, Deputy Mayor, Councillor Julie Gilmour, Cadet Sgt Abigail Maxwell

The Committee and Volunteers from Sensory Kids joined by local MLAs

Alongside its direct services, Sensory Kids plays an important advocacy role, raising awareness of autism spectrum disorder among schools and professionals.

Its work promotes equality and ensures individuals with disabilities are represented and heard within the community.

This dual focus on support and advocacy has helped position the organisation as a key contributor to inclusion across the Borough.

Volunteers driving lasting impact

At the core of Sensory Kids is its dedicated volunteer team, made up of people from a wide range of backgrounds who contribute their time and expertise.

Volunteers are involved in every aspect of the organisation’s work, from planning and training to delivering sessions and engaging with the wider community.

Their roles include supervising soft play, facilitating sensory room and messy play activities, and helping raise awareness of the services available.

This sustained commitment has been central to the organisation’s growth and long-term impact.

Recognition from local leaders

The Volunteers from Sensory Kids are pictured with their Award

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said:

“Sensory Kids plays a vital role in promoting inclusion across our Borough. Through their activities and support, children, young people and adults with disabilities are given opportunities to participate fully in community life, and their volunteers ensure that everyone is welcomed and valued.”

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Julie Gilmour, added:

“The impact Sensory Kids has on families across the Borough cannot be overstated. Their dedication to inclusion, support and advocacy makes a real and lasting difference. We are incredibly proud to celebrate their achievement.”

A milestone moment for the organisation

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service marks a significant milestone for Sensory Kids, underlining the profound difference volunteer-led organisations can make at a local level.

For families across the Borough, the recognition reflects not just an achievement, but the lasting impact of a service that continues to support, include and empower those who need it most.

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At a glance

• Sensory Kids awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service

• Highest UK honour for volunteer-led organisations

• Ceremony held at The Old Courthouse, Antrim on 26 March

• Supports autistic individuals, people with disabilities and dementia

• Provides sensory play, development and family support services

• Tackles social isolation and promotes inclusion

• Volunteers central to delivery and growth of services

• Recognised by Mayor and Deputy Mayor for community impact