Bank of Scotland Kirkwall Branch Introduces Twice-weekly Autism Hour

That the Parliament congratulates Bank of Scotland Kirkwall’s branch on introducing a twice-weekly autism hour; notes that autism hour is a national initiative by the National Autistic Society to encourage organisations to create a calmer atmosphere for people with the condition, such as rooms with dimmer lights or reducing noise levels, and to improve public understanding of autism; further notes that around 58,000 people in Scotland are autistic, which affects how they experience the world around them; acknowledges that the branch in Kirkwall has decided to make its autism hour a regular weekly event, providing a safe and quiet area for those who need it, while also incorporating autism awareness training to staff as part of the initiative; encourages all organisations across Scotland to introduce and promote their own autism hour, and thanks the staff at the Bank of Scotland Kirkwall branch for their excellent efforts to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for customers with autism.