Fans standing outside the club Megastore.

Autism initiative launched at United Megastore

Tuesday 03 December 2019 17:00

Manchester United have launched the first ‘Quiet Hour’ in our Old Trafford Megastore as part of the club’s work to support the International Day of People with Disabilities.

Around 700,000 people in the UK are autistic and for many of them and their families, simply going to the shops or visiting a public place can be overwhelming.
 
During the ‘Quiet Hour’, which starting from this week will take place every Tuesday from 14:00 GMT to 16:00 GMT, the Megastore will lower its lights and music, as well as taking extra steps to ensure a shopping experience that is more accessible to visitors with autism and other disabilities.
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The ‘Quiet Hour’ provides a less daunting environment for visitors with autism and other disabilities to shop at the club store.
This initiative follows the significant renovations to the accessible facilities at the stadium, which are in process. A total of 118 new wheelchair positions are being created along with 158 new amenity seats as part of an £11 million investment the club has made.
 
James Holroyd, Director of Merchandising said: “We are committed to ensuring that Old Trafford remains as an open and welcoming environment for all of our fans.
“This is an important step for us under the banner of our #allredallequal initiative to make the experience of coming to the stadium better for our supporters with autism and other disabilities.
 
“Our ‘Quiet Hour’ will also give staff the opportunity to learn more about autism and improve understanding amongst our fanbase about some of the challenges which people with autism can face.”
 
Chas Banks, Secretary of Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Group (MUDSA) said: "It's fantastic to see Manchester United once again taking steps towards inclusivity for everyone.
Our young fans have a look round the club Megastore.
“The Megastore is a place that every Manchester United fan wants to visit and now thanks to the ‘Quiet Hour’ those with autism and similar disabilities can spend time enjoying the same shopping experience as everyone else.
 
“I believe this will be welcomed by many of our MUDSA members," he added.

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