Tesco introduces a ‘relaxed’ checkout lane for vulnerable customers

TESCO is piloting a new scheme in which it has installed a new "relaxed" checkout aisle in one of its Scotland stores, giving people more time to make their purchases.

Shoppers, particularly the elderly, who need a little extra time at the till will be able to take it slow and feel less pressured to complete their purchases in a hurry.

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The scheme was developed by Kerry Speed, a community champion at the supermarket, and was launched in Tesco's Forres, Moray, store.

Ms Speed said: "Our new relaxed checkout is open to all.

"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 adviser, we want them to be confident they can shop at their own pace."

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The scheme, backed by Alzheimer Scotland, was introduced after the store hosted one of its regular dementia information sessions which aim to increase awareness of the illness.

Ms Speed added: "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.

"Early feedback from customers has been very positive. Although it's a simple gesture, we hope this will make a difference to our customers' shopping experiences."

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The relaxed checkout operates on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings only and is manned by team members trained by Alzheimer Scotland.

Tesco said it would wait to see how the scheme was received by customers before deciding on whether to expand it to other stores.

Wendy Menzies, dementia adviser at Alzheimer Scotland, said: "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.

"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."

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