Hidden Disability Sunflower Scheme
Hidden Disability Sunflower Scheme – Have Your Say!
In 2016, the Hidden Disability Sunflower Scheme was designed and launched when London Gatwick Airport asked “How can we recognise that one of our passengers may have a non-obvious disability?”.
A simple sunflower design was created on a green background for a lanyard – a subtle but visible sign to enable airport staff to identify that the wearer (or someone with them) may require some extra help, time, or assistance when moving through the airport.
Wearing the Hidden Disability Sunflower discreetly indicates to people around the wearer including staff, colleagues and health professionals that they may need additional support, help or a little more time.
Since its launch in 2016, it has now been adopted globally by major airports and venues and in the UK, by many supermarkets, railway and coach stations, leisure facilities, the NHS, a number of police, fire and ambulance services, and an increasing number of small and large businesses and organisations.
Sunflower Scheme Launched in Australia
The Sunflower has been launched in Australia and is recognised in the MCG, educational institutes Go Tafe and Wodonga Tafe, all airports, Yarra trams, V/Line and a number of museums in Australia.
This initiative is designed to help and support both students and staff with hidden disabilities who might need the extra assistance or time.
It may also help raise awareness of the wide variety and spectrum of hidden disabilities.
A Sunflower is not only for those with hidden disabilities to wear. Allies can also wear it (there are Sunflower “Can I help?” badges and stickers) to let people know that if they choose to approach a Sunflower wearer, they will be supported, respected and given the patience they need.
Have Your Say on the Sunflower!
Please let us know what YOU think about this scheme.
(*NOTE: this form is anonymous, so please be as honest as you can.*)