What is The National Autistic Society's Autism Hour?

As part of our campaign and with the support of shopping centre owner intu, on the week of 2 October we're asking shops and businesses to organise a National Autistic Society Autism Hour and take simple steps for 60 minutes that lead to a more autism-friendly world. What is The National Autistic Society's Autism Hour?

For autistic people, the world can seem full of too much information - and too little understanding. That's why we launched the Too Much Information campaign to challenge the myths, misconceptions and stereotypes that contribute to 79% of autistic people feeling socially isolated and 64% of autistic people avoiding going to the shops.

What's involved in a National Autistic Society Autism Hour?

• Turning down music and other noise:

Overwhelming noise is a common barrier to autistic people accessing shops. Where possible, in-store tannoy announcements and other controllable noise should be reduced.

• Dimming the lights:

Lighting, particularly fluorescent strip lighting can be overwhelming for autistic people. Wherever possible, whilst maintaining safe premises, lights should be dimmed or switched off.

• Sharing information about autism with employees:

We don't expect everyone to be an autism expert but we believe everyone should understand autism. We'll provide information about autism to help your staff make your customers' experience a positive one.

Get ready for World Autism Awareness Week 2018!

We can now reveal that the dates for World Autism Awareness Week 2018 will be 26 March–2 April! If you would like to keep up-to-date with important information about the week, please sign up using our enquiry form, on the website.

The above articles was taken from the N.A.S. website. www.autism.org.uk