A popular County Durham retail park has introduced new schemes to improve the accessibility of the site after getting an award for autism and inclusivity measures.

Dalton Park Outlet has announced a variety of initiatives aimed at making the shopping experience more inclusive for all visitors.

Earlier in September the retail park introduced sensory bags for children, in partnership with the North East Autism Society. These bags, which include fidget toys, ear defenders, and egg timers, can be collected at guest services for a refundable £20 cash deposit.

Dalton Park was recently awarded the Autism Acceptance Silver Award by the North East Autism Society.

Kerrie Highcock, family development manager at North East Autism Society, said: "We are thrilled to recognise Dalton Park Outlet with the Autism Acceptance Silver Award.

"The centre’s proactive efforts to create a more inclusive and sensory-friendly shopping environment reflects its genuine commitment to supporting the community."

Visitors can also benefit from a colour-coded, downloadable shop finder and a dedicated accessibility page.

The outlet has also introduced quiet hours every Tuesday from 10am to 12pm and Saturday from 9.30am to 10.30am for shoppers who prefer a setting with less noise stimulation.

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In addition, Dalton Park Outlet has introduced the use of the sunflower lanyard scheme, a recognised symbol for hidden disabilities.

This will allow customers to discreetly indicate to the outlet’s staff and retailers if extra assistance is required.

The lanyards will also be available free of charge at guest services for shoppers who require them or have forgotten their own.

Richard Kaye, centre manager at Dalton Park Outlet, said: "We are committed to making Dalton Park Outlet a truly inclusive destination, and these new initiatives are just the beginning of our journey.

"By offering sensory bags for children and introducing the sunflower lanyard scheme, we are ensuring that our visitors feel supported and cared for."

Dalton Park Outlet will also be providing a 360-degree visual guide of the centre from October.

This virtual guide will be accessible on Dalton Park Outlet’s website, enabling visitors to familiarise themselves with the outlet before their visit.