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While you’ve been out and about at airports, supermarkets and attractions around the UK you may have noticed sunflower lanyards. These lanyards are part of a nationwide initiative to highlight hidden disabilities, as many people feel like these are ignored and can be shamed for asking for additional support.
Of course, we all know that not everyone with a hidden disability needs assistance, but if you do, wearing one of the especially designed sunflower lanyards, indicates that you might need a little more time or help. The lanyards were first introduced by Gatwick airport in 2016 and since then have been introduced at other airports around the country and it was recently announced that supermarkets Sainsbury and Tesco have also welcomed the scheme. They help to alert staff to the additional needs of those with autism, dementia or visual or hearing impairments. The lanyards are free to collect from participating companies and are then kept, so it can be reused every time they need to visit the airport or supermarket.
Staff at participating organisations have been trained to recognise people wearing the lanyards and being aware that they might need additional help with packing and carrying bags and that they might need staff to speak face-to-face to allow lip reading or to use calm, clear language. The lanyards are also available to those who need help reaching products, reading labels and assistance finding suitable trolleys or scooters.
The scheme has been highly praised and well received across the county. If you think you can benefit from the scheme or you know someone else that can, be sure to take a look on their official website.
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