'Quiet hour' launched in Aussie Supermarket to help shoppers with autism

[Bebe 17,289]

We may take it for granted but for some, a quick trip to the local supermarket can quickly become a nightmare.

For individuals on the autism spectrum, the bright lights and loud sounds of a busy supermarket can cause sensory overload.

In response to customer feedback, Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) in partnership with Coles, has rolled out "Quiet Hour" in 68 supermarket stores today to make the shopping experience a little easier.

After a successful trial in August, the initiative aims to prevent sensory overload by dimming the lights by 50 per cent, turning down the radio volume and avoiding trolley collections.

Aspect community engagement and operations officer Linzi Coyle said the modifications were not just been about creating low physical and sensory stimulators.

"We're achieving a 'no-judgement' shopping space where people on the spectrum and their families can feel comfortable and welcome whilst grocery shopping," she said on the organisation's website.

The program will take place every between 10:30am and 11:30am every Tuesday at 68 stores and all customers are invited to participate.

Aspect has also trained team members to "increase their understanding of sensory overload and how to best respond to customer needs".

The program is just one example of how Aspect is trying to create a more inclusive environment for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Read More: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-11-21/coles-rolls-out-quiet-hour-to-help-shoppers-with-autism/9176272

 

With all the horrific news stories in this section, I thought I'd post something a little less grim  

Really nice and thoughtful move from Coles

[Luzaleja 2,573]

 it's very nice to see companies caring about their clients 

[PunkTheFunk 125,733]

9 minutes ago, Bebe said:

After a successful trial in August, the initiative aims to prevent sensory overload by dimming the lights by 50 per cent, turning down the radio volume and avoiding trolley collections.

I wouldn't mind this myself tbh 

[Blake 7,385]

Damn, none near me. 

 

[Katsuki Bakugo 9,788]

So amazing!

[tthen 4,621]

Seems like a great idea...will be interesting to see how this is gonna go and whether it'll end up rolling out to other places soon.

[GAGASLAYME 2,415]

This is actually beautiful. Im so glad to see people repecting all, especially  those on the spectrum and those with other conditions.

America would never

[TimisaMonster 31,073]

When will your country?

[Nicole 1,809]

I'm glad they went through with this. They were talking about it a few months ago but I wasn't sure if it'd be implemented. I think it's a great idea and believe all major supermarkets should participate in it but on different days to increase access to sensory appropriate settings.

[Economy 53,056]

On 2017-11-21 at 4:12 AM, Nicole said:

I'm glad they went through with this. They were talking about it a few months ago but I wasn't sure if it'd be implemented. I think it's a great idea and believe all major supermarkets should participate in it but on different days to increase access to sensory appropriate settings.

Not even just Autism but also even ppl with anxiety would benefit

 

My mom has on and off anxiety and on her worst days things like going to malls or packed stores are a no-no

[ThisTrue 28]

Oh, wow that's so thoughtful! This should be implemented everywhere!