SAINSBURY’S in Prestwick launched a month-long trial of ‘relaxed shopping’ as part of Dementia Awareness Week.

The first of its kind in the UK, Dementia Friendly Prestwick opened the supermarket’s ‘relaxed shopping’ lane on Tuesday, June 5 – which can be found nearest the frozen section – with staff who have undertaken dementia awareness training to help those living with the condition.

The ‘relaxed lane’ can be used for a number of reasons, for example, if some aspects of shopping can cause anxiety, or if there is a lack of confidence in counting money or using cards.

Julie Twaddell, of Dementia Friends Prestwick, said: “We are so chuffed that Sainsbury’s are doing this, and it is their first ever relaxed lane in the UK.

“The staff who will be doing the relaxed shopping lane have done the dementia awareness training and have been so helpful. 

“We have the confidence that this is going to be used and people using it won’t be rushed and they will feel relaxed.

“This is part of the training with people living with dementia and other conditions that make you prone to social anxiety and we want to make it as easy as possible.

“It is about giving people the confidence as well and being empathic – greeting someone with a smile or a helping look - part of the training is that level of awareness.

“We are really excited to see this pilot scheme.

“It will be running 10am to 6pm seven days a week and the isle will be operated by those who have done the training. 

“Throughout the month-long pilot, Sainsbury’s will monitor the level of produce going through the isle and when and how frequently it was used.
“We are very hopeful that is does prove to be helpful for those living with dementia, as well as their carers.”

A spokesperson for Sainsbury’s added: “Our aim is to be the most inclusive retailer and we want all of our customers to have a great shopping experience in our stores.

“There are many aspects of a visit to the supermarket which can be stressful for those with dementia.

“So by trialling a slow shopping option we hope we can make their lives easier.”