Burnley shopping centre turning purple for disability awareness

Purple Tuesday will see shopping centres and retailers across the country introduce measures to ensure visitors’ shopping experience is much more inclusive for those who have both physical and hidden disabilities.

Charter Walk has been on board with the scheme for three consecutive years.

Previously, all staff completed an autism awareness course, with three nominated members of staff appointed ‘Autism Champions’.

The Champions are the go-to employees in the centre with the most in-depth knowledge for shoppers or staff members who are seeking advice.

Staff members have access to backpacks filled with sensory toys to help younger shoppers who are feeling overwhelmed.

The shopping centre also created ‘Quiet Hours’ which now run twice a day for shoppers who have autism.

The Quiet Hours run from 9am – 10am and 4pm – 5pm Monday to Saturday, with Sunday being a quiet day all day.

Debbie Hernon, centre manager of Charter Walk Shopping Centre, said: “We are delighted yet again to be supporting Purple Tuesday and raising awareness for such a commendable cause.

"Charter Walk are continuously working hard to ensure the centre is fully accessible for all our shoppers every day, not just on Purple Tuesday we always have 'an all inclusive offer'.

"It is also a fantastic chance to share what we have achieved so far.

"On the day, you will spot staff members wearing purple badges to encourage shoppers to stop them with any questions they might have. Charter Walk’s social media will have a purple makeover for the day and all posts will focus on the inclusivity and accessibility work of the stores at the shopping centre."

For more information, visit www.charterwalk.com.