The heart behind what we do
Born from a personal experience, Slow Shopping is driven by a mission to champion independence in everyday spaces
Slow Shopping began from a desire of Katherine Vero’s (our founder) to have better shopping experiences for, and with her Mum Jo, who was living with dementia. Katherine had many frustrating and distressing times while shopping, and realised that simple changes could go a long way to helping everyone enjoy the freedom of independent shopping.
That’s where it all started, and now it exists to transcend Katherine’s experiences and open the doors wider for all, regardless of disability or no disability.
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our founder's story
We’re guided by values that are all about putting people first and creating environments where everyone feels seen, respected, and included
Our core values
Our story direct from Katherine Vero
My mum, Jo, was diagnosed with dementia in 2005. She had always loved shopping, but as her illness progressed, our trips together became more difficult. I wanted to hold on to those ordinary experiences, but dementia started to take them away.
Shopping trips became stressful, and I found myself mediating between my mum and staff who didn’t always understand her needs. One day, at the checkout, mum couldn’t remember her PIN. I looked to the assistant for support, but I felt ignored and alone. It was in that moment I felt there had to be a better way.
After my mum passed away, I was inspired to create Slow Shopping, a charity that provides welcoming spaces for anyone who needs extra time to shop. Slow Shopping is inclusive, supporting people with dementia, anxiety, communication challenges, and other disabilities. We encourage stores to offer dedicated times when staff are mindful of customers’ needs, creating an environment that is calm, respectful, and accessible for everyone.
Katherine Vero, Founder of Slow Shopping
