Portsmouth retail outlet Gunwharf Quays supports disabled customers with Purple Tuesday plans

THIS weekend, shoppers can expect the usual hustle and bustle of Saturday and Sunday retail.
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But next week, things are going to be much quieter at Portsmouth’s Gunwharf Quays, according to bosses.

While weekdays being quieter than weekends for retailers is hardly breaking news, Tuesday, November 3 marks Purple Tuesday – and the shopping outlet plans to dial down the volume to an absolute minimum.

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Purple Tuesday raises awareness of the needs of disabled customers, who face barriers such as crowds, noise and accessibility when going out to shop or enjoy a meal out.

Gunwharf Quays is implementing measures to help disabled shoppersGunwharf Quays is implementing measures to help disabled shoppers
Gunwharf Quays is implementing measures to help disabled shoppers
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From Monday to Wednesday, 10-11am will be a ‘quiet hour’ with stores having softer lighting and turning down the music.

Assistant centre director Yvonne Clay said: ‘We are committed to making sure that all visitors to Gunwharf Quays are able to have a positive and enjoyable experience.

‘As such, we are really pleased to be involved with Purple Tuesday once more.

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‘We are constantly working to ensure that shopping at Gunwharf Quays is an inclusive experience for all and hope that our measures will raise awareness of the challenges that disabled customers can face.’

Alongside measures next week, managers have also trained staff members on autism and hidden disabilities, introduced hidden disability lanyards, started providing sensory toys and added an accessibility toolbar on the Gunwharf Quays website.

Since reopening, Gunwharf Quays has introduced safety measures to keep shoppers safe – including hand sanitiser points throughout the centre, a one way system to ensure social distancing can be maintained, floor stickers and signs to remind guests to keep the required distance apart, and a queuing system for entry.

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