Sunflower Scheme

Sunflower Lanyard Project

Assisting adults and children with hidden disabilities

We are proud to be supporting the Sunflower Lanyard Project as a way of tackling discrimination against hidden disabilities. At our HQ in Lancing we have many footballers playing in our Sussex Disability Football League, that use our facilities, many of whom have hidden disabilities.

If you have a disability that may not be obvious to anyone else but would appreciate support from staff in UK airports, certain railways, supermarkets or visitor attractions, then you may be interested to know there is a lanyard you can wear to signal this.

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

The lanyard, an entirely voluntary thing for people with hidden disabilities and their families, creates a discreet sign for staff that additional support or help may be required.

The hidden disabilities lanyard is commonly referred to as the ‘sunflower lanyard’ due to it’s green appearance with sunflowers on it to give it some identity. 

Not all disabilities are visible – some are not immediately obvious, such as autism, chronic pain, dementia, anxiety, visual or hearing impairment.

Living with a hidden disability can make daily life more challenging for many people, but it can be difficult for others to recognize, acknowledge or understand the challenges you face.

How can wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower benefit you?
• People around you, including staff in shops, healthcare, workplaces and public transport may offer you more help
• You or your carer can use your Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to tell people about the additional help you need

Gatwick airport first introduced the lanyards in 2016, with nine other airports across the UK having also welcomed the scheme since then. 

Manchester airport has gone to the lengths of opening a new Sunflower Room, which gives passengers the opportunity for time away from the busy departure lounges if needed.
PURCHASE A LANYARD

For more information, please contact: 

Development
T: 01903 766855
E: Development@SussexFA.com