How you can support Purple Tuesday as part of the autism community

At Autistic Minds UK, we believe in creating a society where autistic individuals feel fully included, supported, and valued. This mission aligns closely with the goals of Purple Tuesday, an international movement dedicated to improving the customer experience for disabled people in businesses and organisations. As Purple Tuesday approaches, there’s no better time for the autism community to step forward, engage with businesses, and inspire change for greater accessibility and inclusion.

Understanding Purple Tuesday

Purple Tuesday was founded to help businesses and organisations recognise and address the needs of disabled customers, including those on the autism spectrum. Held annually, this initiative shines a spotlight on the importance of accessibility and offers support for companies to make lasting, impactful changes. By participating in Purple Tuesday, organisations commit to improving the disabled customer experience, not just for a day, but as an ongoing priority.
The movement provides a platform for advocating the unique needs of autistic individuals, raising awareness, and educating businesses about the importance of neurodiversity in accessible spaces. As part of the autism community, here are some ways you can actively contribute to the success of Purple Tuesday and push for a world that better understands and supports autistic individuals.

1. Encourage local businesses to participate

One of the simplest ways to support Purple Tuesday is to encourage businesses in your community to get involved. From coffee shops and restaurants to larger retail stores, every business has the potential to make a meaningful difference by adopting accessible practices. Here are some suggestions:

• Reach out personally: Share information about Purple Tuesday with local businesses and explain why accessibility is important for autistic customers.
• Share specific ideas: Suggest simple yet effective measures like clear signage, quiet shopping hours, sensory-friendly adjustments, and staff training to improve the experience for autistic individuals.
• Use social media: Spread the word by tagging local businesses in posts about Purple Tuesday and encouraging your community to join in.

By highlighting Purple Tuesday and its importance, you can help foster a greater commitment to accessibility within your area.

2. Advocate for autism-friendly changes

Purple Tuesday is an ideal time to discuss specific changes that could help autistic customers feel more comfortable and welcome. Some suggestions you might bring to a business’s attention include:

• Quiet shopping times: Many autistic individuals are sensitive to loud sounds and bright lights. Suggesting quiet shopping hours can make a world of difference in helping them feel at ease.
• Clear signage: Simple, well-labeled signs can help autistic individuals navigate a space more comfortably, reducing anxiety.
• Staff awareness training: Proper training can empower staff to better understand the needs of autistic customers. Encourage businesses to take part in autism awareness training programs, which can help them support customers with sensory sensitivities or communication challenges.

3. Share personal stories and experiences

Real-life stories are a powerful way to help others understand the challenges and barriers that autistic individuals often face in public spaces. By sharing your experiences or those of family members or friends, you can help businesses grasp the significance of autism-friendly practices. Here are a few ways to share:

• Participate in community discussions: Join or host local community events focused on accessibility and the autism experience. Your input can offer unique insights and foster empathy.
• Write testimonials: If a business has made a positive impact by adopting autism-friendly practices, let them know! Write a review or testimonial, as this can encourage them to continue these efforts and inspire other businesses.
• Engage on social media: Purple Tuesday is a wonderful time to share your thoughts on autism-friendly spaces and tag businesses you wish to recognise or encourage.

4. Support autism-friendly businesses

Once a business begins implementing autism-friendly practices, show them your support! Many organisations appreciate feedback and are encouraged by positive responses from the community. Here are some ways to show your gratitude:

• Leave positive reviews: Mention any autism-friendly practices in your review. This positive reinforcement can encourage other businesses to adopt similar practices.
• Recommend these businesses to others: Spread the word about autism-friendly shops, restaurants, or services with friends and family members.
• Become a loyal customer: Support businesses that make the effort to be more inclusive and accessible. Your loyalty sends a powerful message that prioritising accessibility benefits everyone.

5. Engage in social media campaigns

Purple Tuesday is a social movement as much as it is a day of action. By actively participating online, you can amplify the message and broaden its reach. Here’s how to help:

• Use the hashtag #PurpleTuesday: Join the online conversation by using this hashtag in your posts. Share stories, tips, and ideas on making public spaces autism-friendly.
• Tag businesses you admire: Acknowledge businesses that have made changes to support autistic individuals, inspiring others to follow suit.
• Share resources: Post articles, infographics, or videos that highlight the importance of autism-friendly spaces. You can find helpful content on our website, as well as other autism advocacy platforms.

Conclusion: Building a more accessible future together

By supporting Purple Tuesday, the autism community can drive real, tangible change that improves the lives of autistic individuals across the UK. From encouraging businesses to adopt autism-friendly practices to sharing personal stories, each action counts. At Autistic Minds UK, we are proud to stand with Purple Tuesday in the pursuit of a more inclusive, accessible world for all. Join us, and let’s continue to build a society that respects and celebrates neurodiversity, this Tuesday and every day.