Idlewells Shopping Centre has launched a weekly shopping slot called ‘Simple Shopping’ to make it easier for people affected by sensory-overload to visit the centre. On a Tuesday between 3pm - 6pm noise levels will be controlled to provide a more peaceful environment for visitors affected by these conditions. There will be no music or events taking place at this time every week and even the dryers will be switched off.

This great new initiative is from our Centre Manager, Chloe O’Donnell who’s been working with a number of local groups and organisations with families affected by autism. She’s been looking at ways to make Idlewells more accessible to the whole community and has also put her on-site team through autism and dementia awareness training to ensure they are equipped to assist as effectively as possible when needed.

A brilliant new initiative, congratulations Chloe.