Belfast Christmas Market is aiming to be a "market for all" as all stall holders and staff at the annual market now have access to training to help them support customers with invisible disabilities.
The market, operated by Market Place Europe, has once again registered to be JAM Card friendly and is working with the NOW Group to do the same for Market Place’s other markets across the UK.
This year in Belfast, all 106 stall holders in the market and associated staff have access to JAM Card training to support them in providing excellent customer service for customers with invisible disabilities.
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The JAM Card allows people with a hidden disability or communication barrier to tell others that they need extra time and understanding in a private and easy way.
Market Place has also included the JAM Card brand on welcome banners to ensure the public are aware of their participation in this initiative. Traders have been supplied with JAM merchandise, all of which has added to ensuring the Belfast Christmas Market is as welcoming and inclusive as possible for everyone visiting over the holiday period.
Maeve Monaghan, CEO, NOW Group said: "We are delighted Belfast Christmas Market has continued to be JAM Card Friendly, demonstrating the value the company places on the inclusion of people with disabilities and their families.
“Vibrant cities need to be diverse and inclusive, and this sends a wonderful message that everyone is welcome at the Belfast Christmas Market. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Market Place and working with them to support JAM Card spreading across its UK sites and beyond.”
Allan Hartwell, Managing Director of Market Place added: “Now celebrating its 20th year in the gardens of Belfast City Hall, Belfast Christmas Market has long been committed to ensuring the award-winning festive village is a welcoming place for all.
“We are delighted to once again support the JAM card initiative and look forward to partnering with the NOW Group and our traders to roll this out across the UK at future markets.”
NOW Group also operates Loaf Cafe at City Hall Belfast (also known as the Bobbin) where the social enterprise provides training and employment opportunities for people with intellectual difficulties and neurodivergence.
This contract with Belfast City Hall has been serving the public and delivering social value for ten years. Loaf Café at the City Hall is open seven days per week for the duration of the Belfast Christmas Market.
Market Place has also produced a handy map that enables visitors to pre-plan their trip to the market. The map is available to download from the Market Place website: https://www.marketplaceeurope.co.uk
For further information on the JAM card visit: https://www.jamcard.org/
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