Shopping City ‘friendlier’ for autistic kids
RUNCORN Shopping City has launched a bid introduce autism-friendly shopping for children with autism.
The centre said the introduction of its ‘autism shopping hour’ along with the creation of a ‘chill room’ specifically designed for children with autism makes it one of the first in the malls in the country to do so.
A Shopping City spokeswoman said the ‘chill room’ provides a calm escape with dim lights, bubble machines and bean bags, where parents or carers can take children and adults experiencing difficulties.
She said all centre customer service and security staff have undertaken an autism training programme and every Wednesday there will now be a dedicated shopping hour from 4-5pm, when lights will be dimmed, music switched off and hand driers shut down.
All the centre’s 60 stores are also being encouraged to take part by giving shoppers a calm experience.
Karl Clawley, Shopping City manager, said: “The act of shopping often means enduring a sen- ● sory overload, with loud music, bright lights and other people going about their business without much thought for those around them.
“This noisy environment can affect the many thousands of people who suffer from various forms of autism.
“We want to help everyone enjoy their visit here so we’ve worked hard behind the scenes for several months to train our staff, as well as introducing our Autism Chill Room.
“Feedback incredible. has been ●
“We hope our gesture is embraced with understanding by everyone and people, who care for autism sufferers, can now shop in a more relaxed calming environment every Wednesday.
“We are particularly grateful to Halton Autism Foundation for their help, advice and support.”
The spokeswoman said the move has prompted wide approval on social media.
The Autism Chill Room is available every day until 6pm and may be accessed with a standard radar key, available from centre staff.