Deal has taken one step further to becoming an autism-friendly town after the launch of a free scheme for businesses.

Pub, cafe and shop owners met people affected by the condition at the Autism Aware inauguration last night (Tuesday), hosted by the East Kent Mercury, the Dover and Deal branch of the National Autism Society (NAS) and Kent Autistic Trust (KAT).

Mercury chief reporter Beth Robson, who helped set the meeting up, said: “We hope Autism Aware’s bright branding in the windows of shops and cafes will act as a seal of confidence for those with autism and their families, opening up more possibilities for shopping and eating in the town.

“Many businesses told us they are already welcoming to people with autism. That’s fantastic news. We want them to fly that flag. It’s good business sense, and it’s helpful for locals and tourists coming into Deal.”

“People face massive challenges that we’re not always aware of, and what might seem like a naughty child is actually a kid who is bewildered and unable to cope” - Beth Robson, East Kent Mercury

KAT family support officer Jo Blamires gave a short, informative talk about the disorder to those who gathered at the Astor Theatre, explaining how retailers can help autistic customers.

Ms Robson added: “It taught me a lot about the struggles autistic people face with simple things like going to the supermarket, tasting or smelling food in a cafe, and ordering a meal or catching the bus. Those everyday things can affect them and that can spiral from discomfort and confusion to a full-blown meltdown.

“People face massive challenges that we’re not always aware of, and what might seem like a naughty child is actually a kid who is bewildered and unable to cope.”

Joint organiser Katy Jenner from NAS is working with the Mercury to roll Autism Aware out across Deal.

The next phase of the campaign will target shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, hotels, B&Bs and tourist attractions. Supermarkets and travel providers will be contacted too.

A definitive list of Autism Aware places will be created and passed to Deal’s Tourist Information Centre so officers can tell tourists which places are involved. Businesses who join the free scheme can promote themselves using the Autism Aware branding in brochures and websites.

Ms Jenner said: “Joining is a simple, free and easy thing to do, but it can make a massive difference to people affected. We’re sure it will act as a magnet for tourists if we can turn Deal into an Autism Aware destination.”

If you are interested in joining the scheme, email doveranddeal@nas.org.uk