Bags of help for arts group

Horsecross Arts could benefit from the Tesco Bags of Help initiative, if shoppers vote at the checkout so the Perth arts organisation can buy sensory packs for autistic audience members.

Tesco has a community funding scheme which sees grants of £4000, £2000 and £1000 to local community projects raised from carrier bag sales in stores.

Three groups in every Tesco region have been shortlisted to receive the cash award and shoppers are asked to vote for Horsecross Arts, one of the groups on the shortlist.

The creative organisation and charity behind Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre wants to introduce free-to-borrow sensory packs to support children and adults with autism to access and feel comfortable at live performances.

Some aspects of shows, like crowds, lights and sounds, haze, and even applause, can be overwhelming.

The autism sensory packs will contain items like venue guides, fidget toys and ear defenders to help users to relax and experience the life-enhancing effects of the arts.

Lauren Oakes, head of creative learning, said:“As an organisation, we are committed to identifying ways to remove barriers to attendance and participation and to making sure visiting our venues is an enjoyable and positive experience for everyone.

“Our autism sensory packs are an important step towards achieving this goal and ensuring equality of cultural opportunity for individuals with autism in our community.”

Voting is open in Tesco stores in Perth and Scone in January and February 2019.

Customers will cast their vote using a token given to them at the check-out in store each time they shop.