Tesco introduces ‘relaxed’ checkout to help people with dementia Tesco has introduced a “relaxed” checkout scheme at one of its Scottish stores to give customers who need extra time […]

Tesco has introduced a “relaxed” checkout scheme at one of its Scottish stores to give customers who need extra time at the till a chance to shop at their own pace.

The supermarket launched the initiative at its branch in the town of Forres, Moray, this month.

The pilot scheme was developed with older people, particularly those living with dementia, in mind and is supported by Alzheimer Scotland.

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Kerry Speed, an “ambassador” for Tesco in the area, came up with the idea of a relaxed checkout in a bid to help people living with dementia after she realised many people who live with the condition feel stressed and under pressure when they reach the checkout. However, anybody who would like to take things at a slower pace in the store is welcome to use the checkout.

“Our new relaxed checkout is open to all,” Ms Speed said.

Shopping at your own pace

“Whether a customer has a medical condition which requires them to take things a little easier, or they value an extra couple of minutes to chat to their checkout advisor, we want them to be confident they can shop at their own pace,” she added.

Ms Speed explained she developed her idea following an information session on dementia.

“It was highlighted to me that people living with dementia can feel under pressure when they reach the checkout, and it struck me that this could be true for others as well,” she said.

“Early feedback from customers has been very positive.

‘Simple gesture’

“Although it’s a simple gesture, we hope this will make a difference to our customers’ shopping experiences,” Ms Speed added.

Wendy Menzies, a dementia advisor at Alzheimer Scotland, said: “As part of our ongoing Dementia Friendly Community work we engage with many businesses and workplace organisations both nationally and locally.

“We have supported the local Tesco team at Forres to help raise awareness of dementia and the steps they can take to help make a difference to the lives of people with the condition in the Forres area,” she continued.

Ms Menzies added: “During our discussions with staff we have looked at ways to create a dementia-friendly environment on the shop floor. We welcome this new pilot scheme which will help people with dementia to feel confident in continuing to shop independently in their local community for longer.”

The relaxed checkout pilot scheme operates on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at Tesco in Forres, and is manned by team members trained by Alzheimer Scotland.

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