Sensory toolboxes proposed by Cllr Hoey for all Mid and East Antrim council buildings

Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, DUP Councillor Tyler Hoey

A new motion set to come before Mid and East Antrim Borough Council next month could see sensory toolboxes introduced in every council-owned building across the borough — a move designed to provide immediate comfort and support for children and young people who may become overwhelmed in public spaces.

The proposal, brought forward by Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, DUP Councillor Tyler Hoey, will be considered by full council in May and has already been warmly welcomed by families and local inclusion advocates in Ballymena.

If approved, the initiative would place sensory toolboxes at reception points in council-owned buildings including town halls, leisure centres and community centres, making them readily available for anyone who may need support.

A Ballymena moment that sparked a borough-wide proposal

Councillor Hoey said the motion was inspired by a real incident at Ballykeel Community Centre during one of WAVES’ events, when a child became distressed and did not want to leave the car.

He explained that James Weir, who helps run the events and represents WAVES in Ballymena, responded with empathy and practical support.

“James, who helps run the events, went out to the child with some sensory tools and even took photos of everything inside the centre to help reassure him, calm the situation and make him feel more comfortable.”

That moment, he said, became the catalyst for a wider conversation about how similar support could be made available across all council facilities.

“After hearing about this, James and I discussed how something similar could be made more widely available across council facilities, and that conversation led directly to this motion.”

Councillor Hoey said he is hopeful the proposal will attract support from across the political chamber.

“This is something I am very hopeful can gain support from councillors across all parties.”

He also thanked Councillor Matthew Armstrong for agreeing to second the motion.

A message of belonging for local families

Beyond the practical tools themselves, WAVES said the proposal sends a powerful message to children and families across Ballymena and the wider borough.

A spokesperson for the group described the motion as an important step towards creating more inclusive community spaces.

“This is so much more than just a box of tools. It’s a message to our children that they belong here, that their needs are seen, and that our town is changing for the better.”

They added that the move represents only the beginning of what they hope to achieve for “extra special” children in Ballymena.

“We won’t stop here, but today, we celebrate this beautiful step forward.”

The group also praised the support shown by Councillor Hoey and the council’s Inclusion and Equality Sub-Committee.

“We can’t wait to see these boxes in place, and we can’t wait to see our children enjoying their community with the support they deserve.”

Why it matters

For many families, visiting busy public buildings can be an anxious experience when a child has additional sensory needs.

The proposed toolboxes could include calming aids and reassurance resources that help de-escalate stressful situations quickly, allowing families to access public services, events and facilities with greater confidence.

If backed by councillors in May, the initiative could mark a meaningful step forward for accessibility and inclusion across Mid and East Antrim, with Ballymena at the heart of the idea.

The motion now moves to full council for consideration in May, where it could pave the way for more inclusive and supportive public spaces across Mid and East Antrim.

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At a glance

• A motion has been submitted to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council

• It proposes sensory toolboxes in all council-owned buildings

• The proposal will go before full council in May

• It was inspired by an incident at Ballykeel Community Centre

• WAVES in Ballymena helped shape the idea

• Toolboxes would be placed at reception areas

• The aim is to support overwhelmed children and young people

• Families could receive immediate comfort and reassurance

• Cross-party support is being sought

• The proposal has been welcomed by local advocates and families