A number of supermarkets have introduced a ‘quiet hour’ to help autistic and disabled shoppers.

Scally’s Supervalu in Clonakilty, Co. Cork was the first to do so, and others in Trim and Greystones have followed suit.

It involves turning off fluorescent lights and music for a specified time, to create a more soothing atmosphere.

The idea came from Patricia O’Leary, who studied Autism Studies, and explains why it helps those suffering from autism: “Bright lights are very off putting for people with Autism and also the buzzing you get from lights, we wouldn’t be aware of that but people with Autism would hear it.

“Music which we consider at a level where we can concentrate is like being in a concert for someone with autism.”