Derry Sinn Féin councillor Duffy welcomes support for SEN-friendly Christmas lights switch on
Sinn Féin Councillor Sandra Duffy has welcomed support for her proposal for Derry to stage a Christmas lights switch-on event specifically tailored to children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Speaking after Council unanimously backed her motion calling for the idea to be explored, Colr. Duffy commented: “For most of us, the Christmas lights switch-on is one of those lovely family events we probably take for granted. But for some families, that exact same environment can make the event almost impossible to attend.
“For children with autism, sensory processing differences and other additional needs, the noise, the flashing lights, the crowds, the queues and even just not knowing what is going to happen next can be completely overwhelming.
“I am therefore asking Council to explore a dedicated SEN-friendly Christmas light switch-on which would be a smaller, quieter, lower-sensory event where children and families can enjoy that same Christmas experience in a way that works for them.”
Colr. Duffy also praised the work of local children's music and sensory organisation Mini Melo-Beats, who brought the proposal forward.
She added: “They understand the barriers families face because they work with them directly, and I think their experience, alongside that of parents and other organisations, would be really valuable in shaping what an event like this could look like.
“Christmas should be a time when every child feels included so this motion is really about seeing if we can create an alternative that gives those families the same chance to make those special memories.”