GO’s Sensory-Friendly Initiative: A New Dawn for Local Shopping

Imagine this: the bustling streets of Republic Street, Malta’s capital, on a Saturday afternoon. The usual hum of chatter and clatter of heels on cobblestones. But today, something’s different. The lights are a little softer, the music a little quieter. Welcome to GO’s sensory-friendly hours, a breakthrough for local shopping.

What Are Sensory-Friendly Hours?

Sensory-friendly hours are dedicated time slots where retailers make adjustments to their environment to accommodate customers with sensory sensitivities. This could mean dimming lights, turning down music, or providing quiet spaces. For many, these small changes can make a big difference, turning a potentially overwhelming experience into a pleasant one.

GO’s Commitment to Accessibility

GO, Malta’s leading telecommunications provider, has taken a significant step towards inclusivity with the introduction of sensory-friendly hours across their retail outlets. This initiative, launched in partnership with the Malta Autism Society, aims to create a more accessible and comfortable shopping environment for customers with sensory sensitivities.

GO’s retail outlets in key locations such as Republic Street in Valletta, The Point in Tigne’, and the Bay Street Complex in St. Julian’s will participate in this initiative. During sensory-friendly hours, customers can expect a quieter, less intense shopping experience, with adjustments made to lighting, sound, and even fragrance levels.

How Does It Work?

Sensory-friendly hours will be held on the first Saturday of every month, between 9 am and 11 am. During this time, GO outlets will make the necessary adjustments to create a more sensory-friendly environment. Customers will also find quiet spaces within the stores where they can take a break if needed.

GO has also provided training to their staff to ensure they are equipped to assist customers with sensory sensitivities. This includes understanding the importance of these adjustments and how to best support customers during their visit.

Making Malta More Inclusive

This initiative is not just about creating a more comfortable shopping experience; it’s about making Malta a more inclusive society. By understanding and accommodating the needs of people with sensory sensitivities, we’re sending a clear message that everyone deserves to participate fully in our community.

Dr. Marie Briguglio, President of the Malta Autism Society, welcomes this initiative, saying, “We applaud GO for taking this step towards inclusivity. Sensory-friendly hours can make a real difference to the lives of people with sensory sensitivities and their families.”

Getting Involved

If you’re a business owner interested in implementing sensory-friendly hours, GO encourages you to reach out to them. They’re more than happy to share their experience and provide guidance. Together, we can make Malta a more inclusive island for all.

So, the next time you find yourself on Republic Street, remember to check the opening hours. You might just find a quieter, softer shopping experience waiting for you. And that, in itself, is something worth shouting about.