Businesses urged to sign up for Autism Hour

LOCAL businesses are being urged to make Dundee more autism-friendly by taking part in the UK’s first Autism Hour.

The inaugural event, organised by the National Autistic Society, will see shops and services across the city dim their lights, turn down music and share information about autism for 60 minutes during the week beginning October 2.

Jenny Paterson, director of the National Autistic Society Scotland, said: “About 58,000 people in Scotland are autistic.

“Along with their families, that’s more than 232,000 customers waiting to be welcomed into autism-friendly businesses.

“Taking part in Autism Hour involves making small changes that help autistic people to access and enjoy the shops, cinemas, swimming pools and other public spaces that many of us take for granted. I really hope businesses in Dundee will sign up and take part.”

Businesses can sign up for Autism Hour and download a free information and promotion pack by visiting autism. org.uk/get-involved/tmi/autismhour.aspx. A recent survey by the National Autistic Society Scotland revealed that 66 per cent of autistic people feel socially isolated, and 44 per cent sometimes avoid going out because they are worried about how people will react to them.

Martin Gordon, branch chair of The National Autistic Society’s Dundee and Angus branch, said: “My eight year-old son Cameron is autistic and planning a trip to the shops is a strategic operation. He becomes easily overwhelmed by the loud noises, tannoy announcements and flashing lights. I encourage local business to sign-up for the National Autistic Society’s Autism Hour and make small changes which will allow families like mine to enjoy a shopping experience just like everyone else.”

Jenny Paterson