// Debenhams launches new campaign with National Autistic Society
// The department store will encourage other retailers to hold autism hours like they will
// The annual campaign begins October 5
Debenhams has launched a new campaign with National Autistic Society to encourage other retailers and businesses to hold autism hours.
The annual campaign will begin on October 5.
On October 8, between 11am and 12 noon, the department store chain will aim to create a more autism-friendly shopping experience by turning down music and dimming bright lights.
READ MORE:
- The Entertainer partners with The National Autistic Society for Autism Hour
- Home Bargains announces “Quiet Hour” for customers with autism
Debenhams stores will also be sharing information about autism with staff and customers.
According to National Autistic Society, there are around 700,000 autistic people in the UK and 64 per cent of them avoid going into stores.
Meanwhile, 28 per cent have been asked to leave a public place for reasons associated with their autism.
“Where possible on Tuesday October 8 at 11am, Debenhams will be turning down music and reducing background noise and tannoy announcements,” Debenhams stores director Angela Morrison said.
“We will also be running an education programme for our store colleagues.
“It is important to us to make sure that all our customers feel welcomed and are able to browse, shop and visit our cafés in comfort.”
Debenhams isn’t the only retailer to partner with National Autistic Society.
Toy retailer The Entertainer also joined forces to encourage other shops and businesses in the UK to hold autism hours between October 5-12.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
