Dalton Park Outlet introduces new accessibility initiatives after being awarded Autism Acceptance Silver Award

15th October 2024

Dalton Park Outlet is delighted to announce it has introduced a range of initiatives designed to enhance accessibility and inclusivity for all visitors. From September 16^th 2024, Dalton Park introduced Sensory Bags for children, in partnership with the North East Autism Society.

The bags include fidget toys, ear defenders, and egg timers which visitors can collect at Guest Services for a refundable £20 cash deposit, and aim to aid in creating a calmer shopping experience. The outlet has also introduced quiet hours every Tuesday from 10am – 12pm and Saturday 9:30 – 10:30am for shoppers that prefer a setting with less noise stimulation.

In addition, Dalton Park Outlet introduced the use of the Sunflower Lanyard scheme, a recognised symbol for hidden disabilities, which will allow customers to discreetly indicate to the outlet’s staff and retailers if extra assistance is required. The lanyards will also be available free of charge at Guest Services for shoppers that require them or have forgotten their own.

To further improve the visitor experience, Dalton Park Outlet will be providing a 360-degree visual guide of the centre from October. Developed in collaboration with Everybody Welcome, an initiative provided by Visit County Durham, this virtual guide will be accessible on Dalton Park Outlet’s website, enabling visitors to familiarise themselves with the outlet before their visit and navigate their time at Dalton Park with confidence.

Dalton Park Outlet is also proud to have been awarded the Autism Acceptance Silver Award by the North East Autism Society, recognising the outlet’s commitment to supporting neurodivergent shoppers. Staff have completed training with the North East Autism Society and Proud Allies training with Northern Pride to ensure a welcoming and accessible environment for everyone.

Richard Kaye, Centre Manager at Dalton Park Outlet, commented: “We are committed to making Dalton Park Outlet a truly inclusive destination, and these new initiatives are just the beginning of our journey.

“By offering Sensory Bags for children and introducing the Sunflower Lanyard Scheme, we are ensuring that our visitors feel supported and cared for. The addition of the 360-degree virtual scan further demonstrates our dedication to providing a stress free shopping experience for everyone."

Kerrie Highcock, Family Development Manager at North East Autism Society, said:
“We are thrilled to recognise Dalton Park Outlet with the Autism Acceptance Silver Award. The centre’s proactive efforts to create a more inclusive and sensory friendly shopping environment reflects its genuine commitment to supporting the community. As Dalton Park Outlet continues its journey towards achieving the Gold Award, we look forward to seeing the introduction of more fantastic initiatives that will enhance accessibility and make it a welcoming destination for everyone.” Visitors can also benefit from a colour coded, downloadable shop finder and a dedicated accessibility page.