Livingston Designer Outlet is unveiling a new initiative that they hope will make the outlet even more appealing to those with special needs and disabilities.
The shopping centre hopes to become more inclusive to all with the launch of Quiet Hour.
Running every Wednesday from 9am to 10am, a quiet shopping hour can be enjoyed by guests who see, hear, or feel the world in a different way.
From autism to dementia, this hour has been developed for anyone who prefers a quieter shopping setting.
The outlet and brands will ensure no music is played during the hours and more subtle lighting will feature throughout the mall and in the stores themselves as well as a blackout of any digital screens and signage.
Commenting on the launch, Karen Stewart, centre manager at Livingston Designer Outlet said: “Our ability to be more inclusive to all our guests is of paramount importance and we are really delighted to be starting the roll out of Quiet Hour. We have been trialling it for the last few months and have had really positive feedback as a result.
“By implementing simple changes such as turning off music and digital screens and reducing the lights to create a more peaceful environment we hope to appeal to more guests that may suffer from that struggle with sensory overload. Shopping should be inclusive for everyone to enjoy, and we want to do our part to facilitate this.”
As part of the launch the outlet is also making new sensory packs available that have been designed to support people living with a wide range of disabilities who are likely to benefit from sensory resources to make their shopping experience more enjoyable.
The packs contain items such as ear defenders and sunglasses to help with noise and light sensitivity, fiddle toys to keep hands busy and relieve stress and feeling fans to express how they are feeling. Sensory packs will be available for hire, free of charge, from Guest Services.
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