SINN Féin Education spokesperson Karen Mullan has welcomed the news that the supermarket company Lidl is to introduce ‘Autism Aware’ quiet evenings in all its Irish stores.
From April 2, every Tuesday between 6-8 pm, the following changes will be in place at Lidl stores:
- No in-store announcements
- Reduced lighting
- No music
- Priority queuing for customers dealing with autism as well as extra assistance upon request
- Till scan sounds lowered
- Autism assistance dogs welcome
The Foyle MLA said: “I have been working very closely with Autism support groups and parents of children who are Autistic to help break down barriers and offer whatever practical assistance in their day to day lives.
“This is an excellent initiative by Lidl which is being launched on World Autism Day the 2nd April with all stores hopefully being operational by May.
“Many children with autism are extremely sensitive to all sorts of loud sounds, background sounds from radio and the TV all of which could overwhelm or distract them.
“I would encourage more companies to follow this scheme in the times ahead.”
