Low-sensory shopping in Sebastopol

COLES Sebastopol has launched a low-sensory shopping experience, Quiet Hour, between 10.30am and 11.30am every Tuesday.

Quiet Hour is a partnership with Autism Spectrum Australia, providing an environment that’s easy on the eyes and ears for customers who find it challenging to get their groceries in a heightened sensory space.

The aim of the experience is to assist parents, especially, who may be shopping with children on the autism spectrum.

During Quiet Hour, customers will notice lighting is reduced, the radio is switched off, check out volumes are lower, there are no trolley collections and no roll cages on the floor, no announcements, except in emergencies, free fruit is available and trained team members are available for support.

Coles Wendouree launched the same program in November of 2017, allocating the same day and time. 66 Coles across the state offer the low-sensory experience.

Woolworths Howitt Street has their own Quiet Hour which was highly commended in the Shane Everard/Matt Mattson Access and Inclusion Award last December. It also runs on Tuesday mornings.