GO’s New Sensory-Friendly Hours: A breakthrough for Maltese Families

Imagine, for a moment, you’re at Bay Street, the heart of Malta’s retail scene. The bustling crowd, the bright lights, the constant hum of chatter – it’s overwhelming for some, especially children with sensory sensitivities. But what if I told you, this very scene could soon become a more inclusive space, thanks to GO’s latest initiative?

What are Sensory-Friendly Hours?

Sensory-friendly hours are dedicated time slots where retail outlets adjust their environment to accommodate customers with sensory sensitivities. Lights are dimmed, music is turned down, and staff is trained to provide a more understanding and supportive shopping experience.

GO, Malta’s leading retail chain, has taken a significant step towards inclusivity by introducing these hours across their outlets. This isn’t just a move to attract more customers; it’s a commitment to creating a shopping environment that caters to everyone, regardless of their unique needs.

How GO is Making a Difference

GO’s sensory-friendly hours will kick off with a pilot project in their Mosta and Sliema outlets. Every Tuesday morning, from 9 am to 11 am, these stores will transform into sensory-friendly zones. Here’s what customers can expect:

• Dimmer lighting to reduce visual stimulation
• Lowered music and announcements
• Staff trained to provide additional assistance and understanding
• Quiet spaces available for customers who need a break

Why This Matters to Maltese Families

Malta has an estimated 1 in 10 children with sensory processing disorder, according to the Malta Autism Association. These children, along with those on the autism spectrum or with other sensory sensitivities, often struggle with busy, noisy environments. GO’s initiative opens up a world of possibilities for these families.

Take Maria, a mother of two from Birkirkara. Her son, Lucas, has sensory processing disorder. “Shopping with Lucas can be challenging,” she says. “He gets overwhelmed easily, and meltdowns are common. I’m really excited about GO’s sensory-friendly hours. It means we can finally shop together without the stress.”

these hours aren’t just for children. Adults with sensory sensitivities, the elderly, or anyone who prefers a quieter shopping experience can also benefit.

: Expanding Inclusivity

GO plans to expand this initiative based on the success of the pilot project. If all goes well, we could see sensory-friendly hours in more outlets across Malta and Gozo. The ultimate goal? To create a retail experience that’s inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.

So, the next time you’re at Bay Street, remember, it’s not just a shopping centre. It’s a place that’s making strides towards being a more inclusive space, one quiet hour at a time.

Let’s support GO in this initiative. If you have suggestions or feedback, reach out to them on their social media platforms. Together, we can make Malta a more inclusive place, one step at a time.