Major high street names are joining in with a new initiative aimed at creating a safe shopping space for people with additional needs.
Stores and banks including The Entertainer, Sainsbury’s, Argos, Lloyds Bank, Halifax, Bank of Scotland, Co-op and Schuh will be holding special Autism Hours during the second week of October.
Organised by The National Autistic Society, the hour includes initiatives such as turning down music and other overwhelming noises and dimming the lights. Training is also offered to staff.
The charity says that almost two-thirds of autistic people avoid shops, while more than a quarter – 28% – have been asked to leave a public place as a result of their autism.
Chris Packham, TV presenter, naturalist and National Autistic Society Ambassador, said; “I rarely go into supermarkets. I find that environment really challenging, all of the bright lights, the confusion of the enormous complexity of goods in there, plus all the smells and the sounds.
“It’s a difficult environment.
“That’s why I’m very keen to support Autism Hour, those shops which offer an hour where they make the whole atmosphere a lot more relaxing for autistic people.”
Anne Hegerty, The Governess on ITV’s The Chase and National Autistic Society supporter, said: “I’m delighted to support Autism Hour.
“For me, the perfect shopping experience would be peace and quiet. Ideally no music and if the alarm goes off, or someone begins working with power tools in the shop, I’ll be out of there very quickly.
“Also, don’t hover, I’ll ask for help if I need it.”
Mark Lever, Chief Executive at the National Autistic Society, said: “It’s wonderful to see so many well-known high street retailers have already signed up – and ready to make the world a more autism friendly place.
“Autistic people represent a huge part of our society and it is a disgrace that 64% of autistic people avoid the shops. And, shockingly, 28% of autistic people have been asked to leave a public place for reasons associated for their autism. They and their families want and deserve to have the opportunity to go to the shops, just like anyone else.
“The National Autistic Society want a world which works for autistic people. With Autism Hour, we want to show retailers the small things they can do to help open up the high street for autistic people. Things like staff finding out a bit more about autism and making simple adjustments like turning down music or dimming the lights. It’s often the smallest change that makes the biggest difference.
“Over 5,000 stores have already signed up, and you can find out more or where your nearest participating store is at autism.org.uk/autismhour”
Find out more about the National Autistic Society’s Autism Hour and how to get involved by visiting: autism.org.uk/AutismHour
