Derry City and Strabane District Council will consider a dedicated Christmas tree light switch-on for children with autism and other Special Educational Needs.

At September’s council meeting, Sinn Féin councillor Sandra Duffy put forward a motion, which was unanimously approved by members, called on council to explore a Special Educational Needs (SEN)-friendly Christmas event and return a report to a future meeting.

Councillor Duffy argued that Christmas events should be accessible and inclusive for all children across the council area, but for many children with autism, sensory processing differences and other SEN the large crowds and music, flashing lights, queues and unpredictable nature of the traditional Christmas Light Switch-On can create ‘significant barriers to participation’.

“Council acknowledges the important work carried out by organisations such as Mini Melo-Beats in supporting children with additional needs and their families, and in promoting greater understanding of sensory and inclusive practice,” the proposal added.

“Accordingly, Council agrees to explore the establishment of our first dedicated SEN-specific Christmas Light Switch-On event, providing a low-sensory-demand and accessible alternative to the main city-centre event.

“The event should, where practical, include measures such as reduced noise levels, controlled lighting, smaller attendance numbers, clearly communicated timings, reduced queuing, accessible spaces and a calm environment for children and families.

“Council further agrees that officers will examine the practical arrangements, location, costs and funding opportunities associated with delivering such an event, with a view to establishing an inclusive Christmas experience that ensures children with additional needs and their families can participate fully in the city’s festive celebrations.”

DUP Alderman Amanda Lynch welcomed a SEN-friendly event but worried about funding, as there are currently some communities within Derry and Strabane who can’t access Christmas trees, while UUP Alderman Derek Hussey was concerned that the motion focussed on the City Centre only.

“I would prefer to see that referred across to all of our council-supported Christmas light switch-ons,” he said. “I agree with the concept that is proposed there but not just at one council event, but at all of our council-sponsored switch-ones throughout the entire council area.”

SDLP councillor Sean Mooney and independent councillor Gary Donnelly both supported the motion, with councillor Donnelly concluding; “Let's find the money and get it sorted.”