With help from the council’s Participatory Budgeting (PB) Fund, East Kilbride organisation Little Brains has created the sensory-regulation space that is able to be used in a calm, dignified way by young people and adults with any level of support needs.

The organisation’s ASN support groups help families with children aged from 5 to 16. They currently engage with 67 children with additional support needs, improving their wellbeing, confidence, and inclusion through weekly sessions including sensory spaces, games, crafts and external workshops that build friendships, develop social and emotional skills, and allow them to benefit from sensory regulation.

They also support parents though creating a vibrant, strong, inclusive and compassionate community that enables them to feel less isolated and more supported.

Louise Keegan, Project Director at Little Brains, said: “Spaces like the Regulation Room are not a ‘nice extra’ for our community. For many of the families and individuals who come through our doors, access to a safe, regulated environment is essential for emotional wellbeing, participation and feeling respected rather than managed. It means people can stay longer, engage more fully and leave feeling safer and more settled.

“Awards like this one make a huge difference because they allow us to create things that are truly special for our families without taking away from the funds that keep our doors open week to week.

“This support from the Participatory Budgeting Fund hasn’t just helped us improve a room. It has helped us improve experiences, dignity and emotional safety for the people who need it most, and for that we are deeply thankful.”

Jackie Taylor, Executive Director of Finance and Corporate Resources at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “I’m delighted that the Little Brains has been able to use this money to support local people in such a meaningful and effective way.

“As ever, it’s this community-led approach that makes the Participatory Budgeting process so unique; it genuinely hands the decision-making power to those ideally placed to identify local priorities.

“I thank and congratulate everyone, both in our communities and in the council, who work hard together to foster such a spirit of democracy and togetherness.”

More information about Participatory Budgeting is available from the Community Planning website.