A SWEET shop has launched new menus showcasing their treats in braille for the visually impaired.

Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe, famous for its Victorian style interior and old fashioned sweets, launched the initiative as a way of supporting its charity of the year, New College Worcester,

Co-Owner Michelle Rasdall, 55, said: “We have a different charity each year. We try to choose charities that are small , as they often receive less support. This year it is NCW.”

“When people come into our shop they look around in awe, not knowing where to start. We stock over 1400 different products. It is such a visual experience. We wanted to think of a way to bring that experience to the visually impaired.”

“We have three different menus, two in braille and one in extra large font, listing our top 200 sweets. This way people can come in, get a menu and experience some of the selections on offer. “We want to give people the opportunity to take some time, browse and be independent when shopping with us.”

The sweet shop couple hope that this will catch on to other eateries in the city.

Michelle said: “I hope that this will encourage others to follow suit and offer braille menus in their cafes and restaurants. There is a big visually impaired community within Worcester and it is important that they feel welcome and accepted. We want to do whatever we can to support people.”

“We are located in the High street opposite Next and want to spread the message that we are inclusive to all, alongside out new braille menus we also offer a huge array of sugar free, dairy free, gluten free and vegan products. Nobody should feel excluded because of medical or ethical grounds.”

Spokesman for New College Worcester said: "NCW is a secondary school for children who are blind or vision impaired. As well as taking students from Worcester, we also have residential students from all over the country. We are extremely grateful to Mr Simms sweet shop who have made us their charity of the year, helping us to raise money and raise awareness for young people who are blind or vision impaired."