A Dundee woman plans to live inside a glass box in a Tesco store for 50 hours to raise awareness of autism.
Meg Jones has a brother with Asperger’s, giving her a first-hand glimpse of what it’s like to live with the condition.
She will confine herself in the 3×2 metre structure at the Tesco Extra at the city’s Riverside Drive at 12pm on May 26, leaving at 2pm on May 28.
The 21-year-old, who studied acting at Dundee College, was inspired to carry out the stunt by the work carried out by Caudwell Children, a charity supporting disabled kids and their families.
Meg said: “My older brother has Asperger’s so I’ve got first-hand experience of seeing how families cope with the challenges of autistic spectrum disorder.
“I understand that it can be a lonely place when your child is diagnosed as being on the autistic spectrum, but I want parents to know that there is help and support out there.”
Autism is one of the country’s most prevalent disabilities with 133,500 children currently diagnosed with the condition in the UK.
Despite autism affecting such large numbers of children, Meg said many people still have little understanding of the disability.
Meg has been the community champion at the Tesco Extra Store since January and has the support of her colleagues for the challenge.
She added: “One of my workmates plays the accordion so he’s going to help me while away the hours by performing for me.
“Another colleague is very artistic and intends to draw me whilst I’m in the box.
“Members of the National Autistic Society also intend to come in to the store to see what I’m doing so there will be lots to occupy my time.”
Meg, who is also a keen drummer, is also considering taking a drum into the box to entertain shoppers.
Andy Bailey, from Caudwell Children, who created the ‘locked in for autism’ challenge, is delighted to have Meg’s support.
He said: “Meg’s selfless 50 hour lock in will give me the opportunity to explain to shoppers how the charity supports children with autism.
“Many parents of autistic children have told me that the box is a perfect metaphor for the condition.
“Feeling conspicuous, being viewed from every angle with no place to hide, and struggling to communicate with those outside the box are things that many parents relate to.
“Meg’s 50 hours will really put the charity on the map in Dundee and, hopefully, throughout Scotland.”
Meg also hopes to raise funds for Caudwell Children whilst in the box.
You can support her through her JustGiving page or donate by texting LIFA91 £5 to 70070.
