In News

Thirty-three libraries run under Libraries Unlimited have signed up to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme, a globally recognised symbol for non-visible disabilities, including autism, chronic conditions, diabetes and other similar disabilities.

As part of the scheme, libraries across Devon will be given an extra special welcome from the beginning of June. Library staff will be wearing I Support Sunflower Lanyards and there will be lanyards available for visitors.

Speaking about the scheme, Eve Ashton, library Supervisor in Totnes, Devon, who has been working on implementing the scheme, said: “People living with hidden disabilities often face barriers in their daily lives including a lack of understanding and negative attitudes. Choosing to wear the Sunflower Lanyard discreetly indentifies that the wearer may need support, help or just a little more time.

“Our library staff are already offering help and support to customers with hidden disabilities, many are regular visitors, coming in to our libraries weekly or sometimes even daily to use a range of the many services we offer. This is just a way of formalising that existing support and also saying to other people with non-visible disabilities that if they would like to visit us to use our many services their needs will be met with understanding, patience and extra assistance. We’re hoping to expand the scheme to all 54 library buildings around Devon in the near future.

The 33 libraries that have implemented the scheme are:

Axminster
Barnstaple
Bideford
Bovey Tracey
Braunton
Budleigh Salterton
Crediton
Cullompton
Dartmouth
Dawlish
Exeter
Exmouth
Holsworthy
Honiton
Ilfracombe
Ivybridge
Kingsbridge
Kingsteignton
Newton Abbot
Northam
Okehampton
Ottery St Mary
Paignton
Seaton
Sidmouth
South Molton
St Thomas
Tavistock
Teignmouth
Tiverton
Torquay
Torrington
Totnes.

Paul White, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower CEO, told reporters: “We are delighted that Libraries Unlimited have joined the ever-growing Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network. Libraries are such an important part of the community offering wide reaching services they are an essential hub for all.

“Sunflower wearers will feel confident that when they visit, they will be supported with kindness, patience and understanding by library staff who have received our training.”

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