Barnsley launches weekly quiet hour to create an inclusive shopping experience

A Quiet Hour initiative will be introduced from this Thursday 2 October in Barnsley town centre, helping to make shopping more accessible. Every Thursday, from 9am to 10am, The Glass Works, Alhambra Shopping Centre and Barnsley Market will work together with retailers to reduce noise, providing a calmer environment for visitors who may benefit from a quieter setting.

Recognising that shopping can be overwhelming for some members of the community, including those with dementia, autism or anyone who simply prefers a less busy atmosphere, measures will include turning down music and minimising other sources of loud sounds, ensuring a more peaceful shopping experience.

This initiative is part of the Age-Friendly project, aiming to make the town more age-friendly. Like the rest of the UK, Barnsley’s population is ageing, with 40% of people aged 50 or older. Ensuring that town centre facilities, shops and venues are welcoming to everyone is vitally important to Barnsley’s communities.

Cllr Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture at Barnsley Council, said: “We’re committed to making Barnsley an inclusive and welcoming place for everyone. The introduction of a weekly Quiet Hour demonstrates our understanding of the diverse needs of our community and our ambition to create a supportive environment for all shoppers.

Our towns and cities need to ensure that urban centres remain accessible to all, including older adults as the UK’s average age continues to increase. We look forward to working with retailers to make this initiative a success.”

The UK population is ageing, with the number of people 65 and over in Yorkshire and the Humber predicted to grow by around a third between 2020 and 2040 (ONS, 2020; ONS, 2021).

As a member of the UK Age-Friendly Network, Barnsley has committed to implementing the Age-Friendly Communities principles developed by the World Health Organisation across its plan.

The principles involve improving cleanliness, noise levels and green spaces in town centres, while also creating rest areas, reducing hazards, and creating cohesive and integrated spaces where all communities can feel safe to enjoy their experiences.