The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program was initiated at London Gatwick Airport in 2016. However, there are still many individuals who are unaware of the meaning and history of this essential symbol.
The Importance Of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Feeling safe when travelling is everyone’s right. Yet, some disabilities and conditions remain unseen by others. People with hidden disabilities deserve to feel confident when travelling from the beginning to the end of their destination.
Approximately 1.3 billion people worldwide live with a disability, 16 million in the UK, and this includes hidden disabilities like Autism, Anxiety, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Diabetes, Dyslexia, Lupus, Crohn’s Disease, Endometriosis, and many others. That’s the reason why the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol was created – designed to empower and encourage those with hidden disabilities to signal that they might need a bit of extra support and understanding.
“We chose a sunflower as it suggests happiness, positivity, strength, as well as growth and confidence and is universally known.”
Sunflower lanyards and badges can be acquired free of charge at participating venues (such as airports, railway stations, and stores..) or can be purchased from the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower company website. Staff Members are trained to identify the lanyards and help and assist the people wearing them.
Most Recent Airports Joining The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
In one of our previous articles, we mentioned how Auckland Airport Simplifies Travel for those with Hidden Disabilities.
Many airports worldwide are joining this great initiative showing they care about passengers with hidden disabilities. In the United Kingdom, the Sunflower lanyard has gained recognition in more than 130 airports.
In 2023, the following Airports became part of The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (the First Airport in Germany), El Dorado Airport, Kempegowda International Airport, Cornwall Airport Newquay, Calgary International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Ireland West Airport, Vienna Airport, Austrian Airlines, The Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Hidden Disabilities provides a full list of airports supporting the scheme on their website.
What Measures Are UK Airports Taking To Support Individuals With Hidden Disabilities?
Notably, the airports participating in this initiative go beyond to ensure optimal comfort and safety for everyone with hidden disabilities. In the UK, Manchester Airport, for instance, designated The Sunflower Room dedicated to providing a calm place for hidden-disabled passengers, which serves as a refuge from the noise, bright lights, and crowded Airport, aiming to help passengers relax in a calm environment.
Gatwick Airport has also taken a significant step by introducing a sensory room having in thought individuals with dementia, autism, or cognitive impairments. This important move accommodates the needs of these passengers, creating a more comfortable space for them.
Furthermore, Heathrow Airport has become the world’s first dementia-friendly airport. This accomplishment is primarily attributed to a comprehensive training program provided for 76,000 staff members to familiarise them with the challenges posed by dementia, creating understanding and support for passengers with dementia, and positioning Heathrow Airport as a leader in airport accessibility initiatives.
The important steps airports take greatly impact improving the lives of people with hidden disabilities; travelling is everyone’s right.
