Supermarket giant Tesco is launching a quiet hour to help autism sufferers
TESCO is trialling a 'quiet hour' scheme in a bid to support autism sufferers while they shop.
The supermarket giant introduced the six-week trial at its store in Crawley, Sussex, to prevent people with the condition experiencing a 'sensory overload' in the crowded store.
From 9-10am every Saturday morning, lights will be dimmed and in-store music, display monitors and announcement systems will be turned off.
A specialised till will also be opened for shoppers with autism in order to make their visit as stress-free as possible.
In addition, staff will receive initial autism training and briefing and will be instructed not to pack shelves.
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Tesco said the quiet hour scheme could be introduced nationwide if it proves successful in the trail stages.
Supermarkets are considered the most isolating environment for autism sufferers according to a survey carried out by the National Autistic Society.
Mum-of-two and Director of Autism Parent Empower Jo-Ann D'Costa-Manuel reportedly initiated the supermarket scheme.
She wrote online: "Shopping was always an impossible experience for us due to the sensory overload and lack of public awareness. With lots of visits, strategies and support we now can enjoy our weekly shopping trip with ease."
"I have joined forces with Tesco to introduce a Weekly Quiet Hour to make the shopping experience more accessible to adults, children and families living with Autism," she added.
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