Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme

WHAT IS THE HIDDEN DISABILITIES SUNFLOWER SCHEME?

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower originated in 2016 when London Gatwick Airport asked “How can we recognise that one of our passengers may have a non-obvious disability?”. The answer was to create a lanyard with a simple sunflower design on a green background. It was intended to be a subtle but visible sign enabling airport staff to recognise that the wearer (or someone with them) may require some extra help, time or assistance when moving through the airport.

The Sunflower Scheme has now been adopted by many large and small orgnanisations in the UK and it is starting to be recognised globally.

Wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower discreetly indicates to people around you including staff, colleagues and health professionals that you have a hidden disability and you may need additional support, help or more time.

“The Sunflower Scheme is brilliant! You get a free lanyard and the staff then knows you might need help; be it reaching a top shelf, packing bags etc. Sainsbury’s have a buggy so I ring to book one before I leave home to do my shopping. A member of staff often helps pack my bags then accompanies me to my car, puts the bags in the boot and returns the buggy to the shop.”

WHERE IS IT RECOGNISED?

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme has been adopted by all the major airports, many supermarkets, railway stations, leisure facilities, in the NHS and an increasing number of small and large businesses and organisations. Basically, it is used anywhere where people meet.

To find out where the scheme is currently being recognised in your local area, you can enter your postcode on the Hidden Disabilities website HERE

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THE SCHEME?

There is no qualifying list of hidden disabilities. If you have a hidden disability and feel that you would benefit from wearing a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower product, please do. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower does not entitle you to anything other than recognising that you have a hidden disability and that you may need some assistance, help or a little more time. It is NOT a pass to be fast-tracked nor for any other benefit.

HOW CAN I GET A LUPUS UK LANYARD?

LUPUS UK has worked with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme to produce lanyards and cards for people with lupus. The lanyards are £2.00 each (including postage) and can be purchased via our online shop.

PURCHASE A LUPUS LANYARD HERE

HOW CAN I GET A STANDARD LANYARD?

Sunflower Lanyards are available free of charge to customers from the many businesses and organisations who are members of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme. You can find members of the scheme in your local area by entering your postcode on the Hidden Disabilities website HERE

“I got mine from Sainsbury’s; really easy as you just ask and they give. The staff are fab and will always help. I haven’t tried outside of Sainsbury’s yet.”

As some people may be unable to travel to collect a free Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard or would prefer to have them delivered, they can be purchased through the Hidden Disabilities online shop HERE – The Lanyard costs £0.55 (plus an additional £2.50 for postage and packaging).