Spar and Eurospar, part of BWG Foods, has announced that it will be introducing the Just a Minute (JAM) Card initiative across its network of supermarkets and convenience stores in the coming weeks.
JAM Card allows people with a learning difficulty, autism, hidden disability, or communication barrier to tell others they need ‘Just A Minute’ discreetly and easily, the group explained.
Those with a communication barrier are often reluctant or unable to tell others about their condition. JAM Card allows this to happen in a simple, effective non-verbal manner.
Commenting Colin Donnelly, SPAR sales director said, “Our Spar retailers have a proud tradition of looking out for their customers and the communities they serve and this initiative is another hugely positive commitment to those communities.
"By becoming JAM Card friendly, our independent retailers and their staff will be allowing those living with these challenges that they can shop with us secure in the knowledge that we will gladly give them that extra minute they may need," he added.
Trial Basis
Spar and Eurospar have initially introduced the programme of a trial basis in a number of its outlets, including Spar Citywest and Eurospar Skerries with further rollout to happen over the coming weeks and months as staff are properly trained up on the initiative.
The card was originally developed for people with learning disabilities and difficulties, but can be used by anyone with a communication barrier, such as those who have suffered brain injuries and people who feel self-conscious about their ability to communicate.
JAM Card is available as a plastic card, or as an App on your Smartphone, or both.
Staff Training
BWG Foods said it is in the process of introducing detailed JAM Card training and tools to all Spar and Eurospar employees with the intention of making shopping in our stores a more pleasant and less stressful experience for anyone with autism, or communication challenges.
Malachy Hanberry, managing director Eurospar said, “This is a tremendous resource to people who may find shopping a little stressful and require a bit of extra care and patience."
"Eurospar retailers and their staff are enthusiastic about serving the needs of their customers and communities and we are delighted to introduce this initiative into our network of supermarkets,” he added.
To get a JAM Card, users can request one directly by visiting www.jamcard.org and filling out the request form or it is available to download as an app on Android and IOS.
© 2021 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. For more retail news click here. Click sign up to subscribe to Checkout.
