ALEX ROWLEY is urging people and businesses in the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area to take part in the Autism Hour campaign

Mr Rowley, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, met with the National Autistic Society Scotland in the Scottish Parliament this week to give support to the Autism Hour campaign and urged Fife businesses to consider taking part.

The UK wide campaign, running from 5th to the 12th October, seeks to encourage as many business and services as possible to commit to making their shop or facility autism friendly. This can be simply dimming their lights or reducing noise to help create a calmer atmosphere for autistic shoppers.

Last year, over 11,000 businesses took part in the campaign across the UK.

The National Autistic Society Scotland provides a range of projects and services directed towards the 58,000 autistic people living in Scotland and their families. This includes information and advice, supported living, specialist education, help to get into work as well as a network of volunteer branches that offer community-based activities and peer support.

Speaking about the campaign, Mr Rowley said: “It was fascinating to hear that in order to make a place more autism friendly it usually just means making small adjustments that may seem minor or straightforward, but will make a big difference to autistic people and their families.

“I am hoping many places in Fife will take the suggestions on board in order to deliver a positive impact for our autistic community. I would encourage any local businesses reading to sign up to take part – this is an opportunity not only to make shops more autism friendly but also to raise awareness and engage in our communities.”

To get information on how to take part in Autism Hour call 0131 551 7260.