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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nI first met Ruby and her mum, Lisa, around 8 years ago when I visited them at their home. Ruby was just over a year old. She has a mischievous personality, a huge smile and the most infectious laugh. She\u2019s also visually impaired and has global development delay, as well as other health conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For the past few years, Ruby has been coming to sessions at Sense where she thrives on adult support. She\u2019s benefitted hugely from intensive one-to-one interactions with staff. Sessions like this are just one of the ways we make sure our support at Sense is bespoke and tailored to each child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When Ruby first came to Sense, she didn\u2019t like physical touch, but now she\u2019ll reach out to staff with both hands. Song time is one of her favourite things, and although Ruby is nonspeaking, she\u2019ll vocalise the whole time when we play the ukelele.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ruby also loves musical light up toys, splashing in water and play therapy, and enjoys taking part in baking sessions, relaxation and outdoor walks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These are all activities she\u2019ll be able to do more of now that Sense Hub Belfast is open too. With sensory rooms, dedicated children\u2019s areas, safe outdoor space and an accessible kitchen, the new hub will mean that Ruby, and other disabled children, have a place to come to try new things, make friends and build confidence. With the support of our specialist team families will have a space to go where they feel included, and where disabled children can connect with their peers and their loved ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019ll be sensory play sessions, creative activities like arts and crafts and the chance to have a go at different sports, play musical instruments and enjoy time in the garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s not just Ruby that\u2019s benefitted from the support of our children\u2019s and young people\u2019s team. Her mum, Lisa, has too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lisa says \u201cSense has provided a safe space where Ruby is understood and can be herself. All the staff understand her needs and they\u2019re fully trained to support her with her epilepsy, with learning, with physio- everything. They really know my child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe other children, too, are like Ruby so she has friends who know her and accept her. Our lives wouldn\u2019t be anything like what it is if it hadn\u2019t been for Sense. Eight years ago, I didn\u2019t know where to turn, until Sense.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As well as support for disabled children with complex needs,Sense Hub Belfast<\/a> has a range of programmes, activities and information for disabled adults and their families. For more information about the hub, or to see if our sessions could be right for you, your child or your family, get in touch with our team<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read more stories from disabled people with complex needs and their families who access our services.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFind out more about our impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n