Hidden Disability Sunflower Program: Accessible Airports

What are Hidden Disabilities?

Hidden disabilities or conditions occur when the symptoms are not visible. This includes problems with mental health, autism, brain injury, sensory processing, epilepsy, or multiple sclerosis. People with such conditions may need more time and space or assistance from others.

That’s why the Sunflower Program was introduced: to help those in need at the airport. It reduces stress and enables a better travel experience.

Hidden Disabilities Addressed by the Sunflower Program

Hidden disabilities addressed by the Sunflower Scheme include:

• Autism
• ADHD
• Cognitive impairments
• Mental health conditions
• Chronic pain and fatigue
• Sensory processing disorders
• Dementia
• Physical disability (not noticeable)
• Anxiety

Also, there are other non-visible disabilities that qualify you to use the program.

What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program?

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program recognizes those whose conditions are not obvious and grants extra support and understanding. The organization is based in the United Kingdom and was created in 2016 by Gatwick Airport and many charities. The scheme was recognized in 2019, and companies started to adopt the idea to help those who need additional support.

The badges, bracelets, and lanyards may be purchased via the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower company website or obtained for free at the participating venues. Thanks to the discreet signs, staff may react and help disabled people.

If you have a non-visible disability, you may wear a Sunflower lanyard, which is a sign for airport staff that you need extra assistance. The program is recognizable around the world at airports, on public transport, in museums, or during sports events.

How the Program Works in Airports

The Sunflower Lanyards Scheme works simply. Travelers obtain a lanyard, bracelet, or badge at a special point or online and determine when to wear it. Then, somebody at the airport will notice them and help them out in case of problems. So, if you need some extra assistance/patience, this option is perfect to feel more comfortable.

Benefits for Travelers

There are many advantages of the Sunflower Lanyard Scheme:

• You can discreetly communicate your needs.
• You can count on the additional help from a professional team.
• Your experience with airport navigation will be improved.
• You limit stress and hassle while you are going, for example, to popular travel destinations.
• You can feel prepared and taken care of.

Participating Airports

The global adoption of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program includes many airports around the world, such as major ones located in:

• Australia
• Bahamas
• Belgium
• Canada
• Caribbean
• Colombia
• Crown Dependencies
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Denmark
• Germany
• Iceland
• Ireland
• India
• Italy
• Japan
• Lithuania
• New Zealand
• Peru
• Poland
• Singapore
• Sweden
• Tasmania
• Turkey
• The Netherlands
• The UAE
• The UK
• The USA

You can check the exact list of airports participating in the program on the official Non-Visible Disabilities Sunflower website.

Staff Training and Awareness

The airport staff is educated about invisible disabilities and how to recognize them. The sunflower lanyards and symbols will help them notice people who travel independently or with a group and have trouble on the way due to their conditions. The carer will guide you to a quieter place in case of too overwhelming experiences in the crowd and inform you about sensory-friendly spaces available to limit sensory overload.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I request a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard at the airport?

It is possible to pick up the Sunflower lanyard at the information desk or assistance reception or obtain it earlier online via the website. Check the information about specific airports to know more about additional support.

Are there any eligibility requirements to use the Sunflower Program?

There are no requirements to use the Sunflower program. If you have a hidden disability or feel you may benefit from the scheme, you are free to do so (note that it serves as no pass to be fast-tracked or other benefits).

What types of assistance can I expect when wearing a sunflower lanyard?

You may expect more support, such as navigating the way to a quiet place, informing about sensory-friendly spaces, and showing understanding.

Is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program recognized internationally?

Yes, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program is recognized internationally. Many airports around the world take part in the scheme, which is very convenient for travelers who need assistance.

Can I keep the sunflower lanyard for future travel?

You may keep a sunflower lanyard and use it at another airport that participates in the program and recognizes the sign. This is very convenient, as you don’t need to purchase or get a new one.