Woolworths supermarkets across the northern suburbs are offering a low sensory Quiet Hour shopping experience designed to reduce anxiety and sensory stress for customers with specific needs.
During Quiet Hour, Woolworths Bateau Bay, Lake Haven, Lake Munmorah and Tuggerah will lower lights, turn down music or radio and turn off oven buzzers for an hour, every Tuesday, between 10:30 and 11:30am.
Other temporary changes include reducing the volume of store phones and registers, clearing store entryways, stopping all PA announcements and removing roll cages from the shop floor.
“Our customers have told us that there is a need in the community for a low sensory shopping experience in the area, so we’re pleased to expand Quiet Hour to these stores,” said Woolworths Wyong region manager, Steve Clark.
“Our team takes great pride in ensuring that the store is quieter and less stressful for customers who want to shop during Quiet Hour, and we look forward to welcoming them in store,” said Clark.
The low sensory initiative was developed in consultation with disability service providers at Life Without Barriers.
“Quiet Hour is a fantastic initiative by Woolworths that recognises the different needs of some customers.
“It gives people a way to do their shopping and increase their independence in an environment that is not stressful and overwhelming to them,” said Life Without Barriers Chief Executive, Claire Robbs.
Source:
Media Release, May 3
Woolworths