‘’A truly eye opening experience, it was incredibly valuable to spend time with other business leaders, and subject matter experts being immersed in such an important topic. I will ensure that I build on my learnings and change our business practices to improve the lives of our colleagues and customers that are neurodivergent’’ Dan (Centrica)
Tesco Dedworth hosted an Autism Experience where 20 customers, business / education leaders from private & public sector, were able to spend 10 minutes immersed in the experience of what it’s like to have autism. We hosted two events during the day.
This was followed up with a workshop explaining more and getting feedback from attendees.
“Everyone who deals with the public, knows someone who is autistic or thinks they might should do this course. It is an eye opener.” Cllr Catherine Del Campo
Most of us have probably never really thought what it is like for others until we are confronted with things head on, as a new child is born into our family group who is “different” or an older member of the family starts to have memory problems (not the same but no so different) and we need to start researching…
We may hear a child “kicking off” in the store and blame this on poor parenting! It could well be, but it could also be the child is being overloaded with sensory inputs… we don’t know and after experiencing the training we’re probably much more tolerant of others.
“I’ve a greater understanding of how traumatic visiting a supermarket can be. It was good to hear how Tesco will make further changes to help make the experience less traumatic “ Cllr Helen Price
Professionally, companies need to start thinking how can we accommodate the needs of people with these “special powers”… a phrase I heard from those working full time with those with additional needs. It is known that many of those with autism are incredibly bright and loyal so why would an employer not want more than their fair share of employees with autism?
“This immersive experience allowed us to glimpse what daily life may be like for Autistic people and challenges us to consider what we can do to make our services more accommodating of neurodiversity” Cllr Amy Tisi
Our colleagues & families appreciated the experience. Sue said “It gave me a very good insight into what it is like for my grandson. Better than I had anticipated and it was refreshing to see so many big local employers showing an interest.”
We had a range of attendees from LEGOLAND, Centrica, The Green Room College, The Autism Group, Achieving for Children, Tesco colleagues & family, plus local RBWM Councillors.
Jason and 3 of his colleagues from LEGOLAND attended “We found the experience to be really useful and insightful over the struggles and difficulties those with autism may experience in everyday life including something most take for granted like food shopping.
It was interesting speaking after the experience over what each of us found the hardest part physically, and showed even within a small group how varied and impactful Autism can have on each person individually. For example one of us struggled with the lighting while another person found the noise level to be so overwhelming they couldn’t focus on other parts of the experience.”
I asked the teenager who joined us, was it how he experiences life and he indicated it was a fair representation! WOW that would explain why he’s so quiet, he doesn’t want to add to what is already going on around him.
After the experience Joe, our GM is keen to do what he can to make things better in our store…
“It was a real eye opener to experience what it could be like for someone with autism when they go shopping in a supermarket. We will put some things in place that will hopefully help to make it a much better experience for customers with Autism.” Joe, General Manager Tesco Dedworth
I am pleased we put this event on to give local decision makers an insight. I hope we’ll be able to facilitate a similar day for customers whose family members have Autism as having that experience, as has already been said, is a massive eye opener into their world and enables us to be more appreciative of their actions and consider how we might better engage with anyone of any age with neurodiversity.
Thank you.
Jon Davey
Tesco Dedworth Community Champion
Once again a wonderful event I wasn’t around for (- sorry). As an Autistic adult with sensory issues. I find shopping in any supermarket a trial- think bright lights, loud tannoy announcements, and checkout beeps that I can’t zone out. However as somebody who wants to maintain independence I insist on food shopping myself. Tesco Dedworth has long been one of my favourite stores not only because I live fairly close but because of the steps already taken in store. e.g. Clear signage when items are moved or fridge and freezers are broken. Staff are always happy answer questions. Also it may not be a Tesco express it feels smaller than some other stores and is more comfortable to move around. Lastly because they take so many steps to be accessible to all and to reach out to our community. So although your are the best local supermarket from my point of view. I am so impressed that you as their community champion and Tesco Dedworth are working to be better if possible. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Can I ask that where adults with Autism go during the day. I cannot find anything in the area for adults to attend and take part in activities or socialise with others. I really think that they are forgotten in the community, leading them to live sheltered and lonely lives. It seems there are options for children and teenagers but not for .adults
We at The Autism Group were delighted to take part in the day and be part of the group discussing the impact autism can have on every day tasks most of us take for granted – such as shopping in a supermarket – and most importantly how we can all help with a little more understanding of the challenges involved and some very simple steps that can make a world of difference to an autistic person.
For information on what we have to offer to families in the East Berkshire area please take a look at our website: https://www.theautismgroup.org.uk/