Autism Spectrum Disorder: 'Quiet Hour' Launched In Supermarket To Help Shoppers With Autism

A supermarket chain in Britain has launched the "quiet hour" to cater to shoppers with autism. For one hour on Saturday, May 7, the Asda Living Store will turn off its escalators, in-store music and TV displays, as well as hold off using the tannoy for announcements. The drive is to make people in the autism spectrum disorder and their families shop with ease.

Manchester Evening News reports that Asda Living Store's general manager, Simon Lea, got the idea from a mother who was shopping at their store with a child with autism. He noticed how the boy had been "kicking and screaming" while the mother looked drained.

When he found out that he suffers from autism and was having a meltdown, Lea decided to do something about it. Thus, the "quiet hour" was hatched.

Making Small Changes For Those With Autism Spectrum Disorder

"If we can make a few small changes to give these customers a better shopping experience and make them comfortable then I know the store will be a better place to shop for everyone," he told BBC. So, on the day assigned for "quiet hour," Asda Living Store in Cheetham Hill, Manchester will open between 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. especially for shoppers with autism and their families.

However, "quiet hour" isn't exclusively for people with autism and their families. The store can also welcome those who want to shop during "quiet hour" even if they are not coming with someone suffering from a neurological or psychological disorder.

Lea and his team will evaluate if they will be having quiet hours regularly after this first attempt. If indeed a success, other Asda chain stores could soon follow the initiative.

Hats off to this ASDA mgr. for his weekly 'quiet hour' to benefit shoppers w/#specialneeds! https://t.co/WvtMjjCILl pic.twitter.com/hypMNgmDcr

— AutismAwareness(com) (@autism212) April 25, 2016

Autism And Sensory Sensitivity

The National Austic Society cites that people under the autism spectrum disorder can be sensitive to loud noises and bright or busy lights.  Some tend to shut down or have a meltdown, just like the boy at the shop, and can end up hurting themselves physically.

Not everyone can immediately understand the situation or even link the cause of these episodes to their sensory sensitivity. Thus, it is challenging to address the situation. However, the group asks that people with autism should never be judged for acting out this way.