Rotherham shop introduces autism-friendly 'quiet hour'

The discount department chain, which has outlets in Rotherham town centre and Parkgate, consulted the National Autism Society (NAS) for advice.

The quiet hour will see music turned off and announcements only made in emergencies, the firm said.

Operations director Joe Morris said: “Home Bargains stores can be busy places, which can be potentially overwhelming for people with autism.”

NAS Rotherham welcomed the move, noting that this made the firm the second retailer to hold autism-friendly times in Rotherham after Morrisons.