Listening to local people, understanding their experiences and acting on what they hear is helping Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council make practical improvements to equality and accessibility across the Borough.

Over the past year, people’s experiences have helped shape changes ranging from more accessible Council facilities and consultations to the #DontBlockThePath campaign, which highlights the impact blocked pavements can have on disabled people, older residents and parents.

For Diversity Ambassador Cara McShane, listening is at the heart of meaningful progress. “For me, equality starts with listening. The people who experience challenges first-hand are often the ones who can tell us most clearly what needs to change.

"Over the past year, their voices have helped shape the #DontBlockThePath campaign, improvements to accessibility across Council facilities, and the way we involve people in consultations.”

Chief Executive David Jackson said equality needs to be part of the Council’s everyday work, rather than something considered separately: “Equality isn’t the responsibility of one team; it needs to be reflected in the decisions we make, the services we deliver and how we work with our communities and staff.

"We’ve made real progress this year, from expanding accessible information and carrying out Access Audits, to improving leisure facilities and strengthening how we consult with the public.”

Making it easier for people to have their say

During 2025–26, the Council carried out 19 policy screenings and 19 consultations, using a range of approaches to make it easier for people to participate.

These included online surveys, paper forms, telephone responses, drop-in sessions and Easy Read versions. Engagement took place across the Borough, including in Ballycastle, on Rathlin Island and in Portrush.

The aim is simple: to give people different ways to share their views and make sure those views can help inform Council decisions.

Equality Forum helping to shape change

A key part of this work has been the Council’s Equality Forum, which provides an important opportunity for community and voluntary organisations, groups and individuals to share their experiences, raise issues and help shape the Council’s approach to equality.

The Forum has played a major role in bringing different perspectives to the table and helping the Council better understand the experiences and barriers faced by people across the Borough.

The Council would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the Equality Forum and shared their time, knowledge and lived experience. Their contribution helps ensure that equality work is grounded in the realities of people’s everyday lives.

If you would like to find out more about the Equality Forum or get involved, we would be very pleased to hear from you!

Email: equality@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Whether you represent a community or voluntary organisation, a local group, or simply want to share your own experience, your voice can help make a difference.

Improving accessibility across Council services

Accessibility has also been a key focus, with 18 independent Access Audits completed to help identify where improvements could be made across Council buildings.

Leisure centres introduced a number of inclusive initiatives, including Autism Impact Awards, an Inclusive Cycling Fleet and improved signage. Changing Places facilities have also continued to support greater participation at major Council events.

These practical changes can make a real difference to people’s ability to access services, take part in activities and feel welcome in Council spaces.

Listening to communities and removing barriers

The Labour Market Partnership has supported people facing barriers into employment through flexible learning opportunities, disability-focused initiatives and inclusive job fairs.

Feedback from community groups has also led to simpler grant claim forms, while lived experience helped inform the #DontBlockThePath campaign.

The campaign shines a light on an issue that can easily be overlooked but can have a significant impact on everyday life particularly for disabled people, older residents and parents who may find blocked pavements difficult or impossible to navigate.

Supporting equality within the Council

The focus on equality also extends to Council staff and the way services are planned and delivered.

Equality actions have been built into service business plans, staff have received training on key equality topics, and a revised Special Leave Policy has been introduced to provide more consistent support for employees.

While there has been progress, both leaders recognise that there is still more to do.

Many equality improvements take time, and the Council will continue to strengthen equality screening, improve the quality of its data and develop its understanding of the barriers experienced by different groups.

Cllr Cara McShane said the progress made over the past year demonstrates the value of creating opportunities for people to be heard. “When we listen properly, we learn things we wouldn’t otherwise see. And when we act on what we hear, even small changes can make a big difference.”

David Jackson, Chief Executive added: “Our ambition is not just to meet our statutory responsibilities it’s to use what we learn from our communities to improve services and make better decisions. That’s how equality becomes part of everyday Council business.”

Thanks to everyone who has shared their experiences through consultations, forums and community groups, with particular thanks to members of the Equality Forum for their continued contribution.

Their voices continue to help shape a Borough where people can participate, access services and feel included and where listening leads to action.

Read the Equality Annual Progress Report 2025–2026: https://causewaycoastandglens....