Morrisons is introducing ‘sensory support boxes’ for autistic and neurodiverse customers shopping in its stores across the UK.
Supermarket shopping isn’t always the most pleasant or manageable of experiences for everyone, especially for those who are autistic or neurodivergent – with bright lights, loud sounds, strong smells, and crowds of people making it a rather overwhelming and overstimulating atmosphere.
This is why Morrisons has decided to collaborate with the National Autistic Society to introduce dedicated ‘Sensory Support Boxes’ at its stores nationwide, as a way to both mark World Autism Acceptance Month, and help autistic and neurodivergent customers have the positive shopping experience they deserve.
Image: Morrisons
These boxes have been carefully-developed in consultation with the National Autistic Society to ensure they include the most helpful items.
A range of toys like fidget balls, spinners, and squish mats can all be found inside the boxes – which will be eventually be available in all 500 Morrisons supermarkets by May – to help encourage calmness and focus.
All that customers wishing to access the items need to do is simply speak to a colleague at the customer service kiosk of their local Morrisons store.
More than one in 100 people are autistic, and there are 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK.
Image: Morrisons
Speaking on the decision to introduce the Sensory Support Boxes into UK stores, Joseph Clark-Bland, who is the Community Manager at Morrisons, said: “It’s a priority for us to ensure all Morrisons customers feel welcomed and understood.
“We’re proud to be leading the way in creating a more inclusive shopping environment for autistic people, their families and all neurodivergent people across the UK.
“World Autism Acceptance Month has been a key moment for Morrisons for many years, and we look forward to supporting even more customers via our new Sensory Boxes.”
The introduction of the Sensory Support Boxes comes after Morrisons first trialled a ‘Quieter Hour’ in some of its stores back in 2018, before rolling it out nationwide in 2024 due to its successful and positive feedback.
Featured Image – Morrisons
Shopping
Much loved independent homeware store finds new home after being closed for three months
After their sudden closure and disappearance from Leeds’ independent retail scene earlier this year, North Home have found a new location.
Homeware and interior lovers will remember the devastation that North Home's closure caused back in March.
The independent Nordic-inspired shop in Leeds' affluent Victoria Quarter was stacked to the brim with unique pieces from striking ceramics to stylish soft furnishings.
Well known amongst shoppers for their incredibly well-curated stock and great customer service, this was one of the best shopping experiences for homeware enthusiasts in the city.
Seriously, we've probably spent a good hour in here in awe of all the beautiful pieces.
Their closure in March was down to "increasing costs", stating that "Taking this step now gives us the opportunity to protect what we’ve built and focus on the future of the brand.
"We’ve loved being part of the Leeds retail community since 2020 and are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received. We hope to share more about our plans soon."
And low and behold, they've stuck to their word as North Home have announced that they will be moving into Red Brick Mill over in Batley.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, North Home said: "We’re officially setting up a new space! Thanks for all your great suggestions and ideas.
"We’re super excited to start working with you on your interior design projects. Thanks to REDBRICK for their very warm welcome. Opening soon @redbrick_mill in Batley"
This new chapter marks an exciting fresh start for North Home, and we couldn’t be happier to see them back doing what they do best.
Why shoppers are flocking to this much-loved independent kitchen shop in the heart of Ilkley
Clementine Hall
Community Cutlery in Ilkley is a must-visit for any avid chef or homeware lover.
Nestled on Leeds Road in the somewhat 'trendy' area of the beautiful spa town of Ilkley, you'll find Community Cutlery - a speciality kitchenware shop that's been standing proudly for five years.
Run by Gaz Heaton who really, really knows his stuff - here you'll find the largest selection of Japanese knives outside of London as well as the most beautiful collection of kitchenware you've ever seen.
Everything is tried and tested, from the teapots to the matcha mixing bowls, so you know you're getting the very best of the best whatever you decide to take home.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Of course, buying kitchen knives can be daunting at first, but Gaz is so welcoming and makes you feel right at home.
He'll ask you a few questions, what your knife's main purpose will be, what you're used to currently, and from then you'll be able to chop a few carrots on the Community Cutlery chopping board to see which one takes your fancy.
Once you've taken your knife home you can come back instore for their knife sharpening service, to make sure it stays sharp and in perfect condition.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's a shop that proves that the British high street in fact is not dead just yet, with customers flocking from far and wide to visit the shop for Gaz's expertise and incredible selection of products.
You can seriously get everything here, from aesthetically pleasing pepper mills and adorable butter dishes to handcrafted chopping boards and Japanese ceramics.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
They've even got Community Cutlery merch which would make the perfect present, in fact anything in that Aladdin's cave would.
You can find out more about Community Cutlery here.
Emily Sergeant -
3rd April 2025 
