Club shop to host 'Quiet Hour'
Swansea City’s Club Shop will host a 'Quiet Hour' on Thursday, July 11.
The event – which will run from 5pm to 6pm – is designed to help supporters with autism, and other disabilities and conditions that would benefit from a calmer shopping environment.
As part of the evening, TVs will be turned off, music will not be played and the shop’s lighting will be dimmed.
The club has worked closely with the Swansea City Disabled Supporters’ Association to enable the event to take place, and would like to thank the DSA for its continued efforts in assisting Swansea City in our efforts to make our club accessible to all.
“As a Club we’re delighted to be able to accommodate the request from our Disabled Supporters’ Association (DSA) following our recent kit launch,” said Mark Phillips, Swansea City’s Disability Access Officer.
“We understand there are many barriers and challenges when shopping that can cause disabled supporters to avoid visiting the club shop altogether.
“Disabled supporters will be able to browse the all new Swansea City kit and training wear range for the 2019-2020 season and will experience an environment that will not just have a new look, but also a new feel.
“Following consultation with the DSA, televisions will be turned off, music will not be played, background noise will be reduced and the lighting dimmed.
“The purpose of the quiet hour is to provide a calm, less overwhelming environment, as well as a great opportunity for the Club to raise awareness and improve the understanding of Swansea City employees and the Jack Army about the challenges faced by our disabled supporters.
“While quiet hours are beneficial for those with autism, it also helps those who may struggle with anxiety and crowded areas.
“As a Club, myself and Catherine Thomas (Head of Customer Service and Hospitality) regularly meet with the DSA to look at what we can do to improve accessibility.
“The introduction of a quiet hour shows the passion and commitment of both the Club and the DSA to help disabled supporters.”
