For autistic people, the world can seem full of too much information – and too little understanding.

Which is why the National Autistic Society launched the Too Much Information campaign to challenge the myths, misconceptions and stereotypes that contribute to 79 per cent of autistic people feeling socially isolated and 64 per cent of autistic people avoiding going to the shops.

As part of the campaign, the National Autistic Society is asking shops and businesses to organise an Autism Hour and take simple steps for 60 minutes to lead to a more autism-friendly world.

The Halston hotel in Carlisle is keen to show its support.

Claire Hughes, business development manager, said: "The idea of Autism Hour appealed because it is something practical that we can do to make our space more welcoming.

"From a personal perspective, my nephew is on the spectrum and I appreciate some of the challenges he faces entering certain spaces."

These simple steps include turning down music and other noise: overwhelming noise is a common barrier to autistic people accessing spaces.

Claire said: "Barton’s Yard is a calm space already and for the hour we’ll be using softer mood lighting, switching off music, hand dryers and our coffee grinder, there will be a separate ‘chill-space’ and a picture menu option.

"Alongside that we’ll be running a session with our staff to provide information about autism to develop better understanding of what it means and how we can provide positive customer experiences.

"We would like to thank Carlisle Mencap who have been particularly helpful, providing information and resources."

Barton’s Yard at The Halston on Warwick Road will be holding the Autism Hour at 1pm every day from tomorrow (SUN) until October 12.

More than 1 in 100 of the population have been diagnosed with autism. Along with their families, that's more than three million customers waiting to be welcomed into shops, restaurants and business.