Discount retailer Home Bargains has introduced a weekly 'quiet hour' to help shoppers with autism.

Working alongside the National Autistic Society, it aims to create a calmer environment for those who struggle in noisy places.

Home Bargains, which has stores in Carlisle, Workington, Whitehaven and Penrith, says the quiet shopping hour will take place every Saturday, between 9amand 10am.

Music will be turned off and the tannoy set aside, to be used for urgent announcements only.

The National Autistic Society, a UK charity, says those living with autism can find loud noises and sudden movements distressing.

Joe Morris, from the retailer, said: “Home Bargains stores can be busy places, which can be potentially overwhelming for people with autism.

"We have created the quieter and calmer environment to enable all of our customers to have an enjoyable and relaxing shopping experience."

We will continually assess where we can support each and every one of our 5 million weekly shoppers, whatever their situation.”

Tom Purser, head of campaigns at the charity, said: “We are very pleased to hear that Home Bargains is introducing a quiet hour into its stores to make shopping a little easier for autistic people and their families, having taken part in the National Autistic Society’s Autism Hour in October.

“We hear from autistic people and their families that shops and other public spaces can be challenging because of bright lights, strong smells and crowds or queues, all of which can cause them to feel overwhelmed. Our research shows that 64 per cent of autistic people avoid the shops and 28 per cent have been asked to leave a public place for reasons associated with their autism.

“There are 700,000 autistic people in the UK and their needs aren’t always immediately obvious. We know a basic understanding and small changes like quiet hours could transform the lives of autistic people and their families, allowing them to take part in activities that many people can take for granted. We hope more shops will be inspired by Home Bargains and do their bit to help make sure autistic people and their families have the same opportunities as everyone else.”