A shopping centre has pledged its commitment to supporting autistic people and their families.

Bluewater will introduce weekly quiet hours, hidden disability lanyards and specially adapted cinema screenings, with the aim of delivering a more "inclusive retail experience".

The announcement coincides with World Autism Week 2019, which ends this Sunday.

New measures will be brought in during the next 12 months, and also include sensory toy bags, downloadable and printed guides of the centre and a "quiet room".

Staff will also receive training on how to support guests with hidden disabilities.

This week, the Dartford shopping centre will offer daily quiet hours between 3pm and 5pm - reducing the amount of music in central areas and dimming the lighting.

There will be a special event for autistic people in the Place of Quiet room at 3pm today, designed to familiarise children with Bluewater within a calming environment.

Robert Goodman, general manager at Bluewater, said: "We’re confident that the measures we’ve introduced are a step in the right direction to ensuring that Bluewater is accessible to all.

"We are fully committed to ensuring all of our guests have a positive experience and delivering a welcoming experience for those with autism and their carers."

More than 700,000 people in the UK have been diagnosed with autism, according to figures from the National Autistic Society.

It found that 79% of autistic people, and 70% of their family members, feel socially isolated, while 50% sometimes avoid going out because they're worried how people will react to their disability.

In addition to this, 28% of autistic people have been asked to leave a public space, due to behaviour associated with their disability.

Mandy Garford, chairman of NAS Dartford and Gravesham, said: "NAS Dartford and Gravesham has supported a variety of shops for autism hour at Bluewater, and was invited to hold a talk for concierge staff to increase the understanding of autism.

"We are absolutely delighted that Bluewater has taken these steps to make shopping more accessible and enjoyable for those who might otherwise struggle.

"In general awareness of autism has improved, but understanding of autism is still lacking.

"Difficulties can vary hugely from person to person, so it is vital that people are trained, educated and listen to people's individual needs."

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