New trolleys ease shopping stress for children with disabilities

Parents and carers who have children with a disability can now access a specially-designed supermarket trolleys for children with disabilities at Coles stores in the Pilbara.

Based on a US trolley known as Caroline’s Cart, the trolley can cart a child up to 70kg, has padding on the sides, a harness and additional support in its structure.

Coles operations and supply chain director Andy Coleman said he was pleased with the positive response Coles had received from customers using the specially-designed trolley.

“The trolley ensures that parents and carers no longer need to juggle a wheelchair and shopping basket during their shop at Coles,” he said.

“It means they are able to place all their groceries in a trolley while also having their child seated safely.”

Australian Network on Disability chief executive Suzanne Colbert said the organisation welcomed the work done in meeting the needs of customers.

“By having accessible shopping trolleys available in stores across WA, Coles is making it easier for families of children with disability to do their grocery shopping, without the experience causing undue stress or anxiety,” she said.

The additional needs trolley is available from the customer service desks in the Karratha, South Hedland and Tom Price stores.