We are pleased to hear that the family-owned high street toy retailer The Entertainer, has extended its much-loved Quiet Hour to run every day in every one of its 171 stores across the country. 

The initiative aims to create a calmer shopping environment for autistic people and for any shoppers who find the hustle and bustle of shopping an uncomfortable experience. After previously running on Saturdays and during the school holidays, Quiet Hour will now be operating every morning for the first hour of opening. 

During the Quiet Hour, there will be no music playing, the lights will be dimmed wherever possible, and the stores will be made to feel calmer.  

The Entertainer has also been awarded our Autism Friendly Award for its commitment to supporting its autistic customers and their families, including providing additional staff training to help store teams to support them.

Tom Purser, Head of Campaigns at the National Autistic Society, said: “We are very pleased to hear that the Entertainer is extending its Quiet Hours. They are really showing their commitment to autistic shoppers and leading the way for other retailers. 

“Autistic people represent a huge part of our society – around 1 in 100 people in the UK. It’s important that autistic children, adults and their families have the opportunity to go to the shops, just like anyone else. But many find the crowds, noise and unpredictability of our high streets completely overwhelming and end up avoiding them altogether. 

“The smallest changes can help open up the high street for autistic people. Things like staff finding out a bit more about autism and making simple adjustments, like turning down music or dimming the lights. 

“As coronavirus restrictions ease, it’s more important than ever for retailers to consider autistic people and make sure they aren’t left stranded and unable to return to shops along with everyone else.”