Hidden disabilities don't have physical signs and may include autism, learning difficulties, mental health as well as mobility, speech, visual or hearing impairments. They can also include lung conditions as well as chronic illnesses which significantly impact day-to-day life.
Living with these conditions can make daily life more demanding for many people, especially when using our health services. They affect each person in different ways and can be frustrating, painful, exhausting, and isolating.
Without visible evidence of the hidden disability, it is frequently difficult for others to recognise and respond appropriately which can easily lead to misunderstanding and the person having a poor experience. The sunflower symbol is one now widely used to identify those individuals with a hidden disability and those able to give a little extra help.
Introducing the Sunflower Scheme is a direct result of our Listening Events held last year. We are supporting and promoting the scheme as part of our pledge to listen and learn from what our communities tell us.
We are really pleased to be joining and working with national and local organisations and businesses to support the scheme and raise awareness of the difficulty people may experience when using our services if they have a hidden disability.
We will be providing a range of items which will be available for patients, visitors, carers and staff. These are a discreet way of letting us know people may appreciate a little extra help or that our staff can be approached with confidence to give support
The Sunflower Lanyards and other items will be available in receptions and key locations around our hospitals and community care settings. Please complete the form below to request a sunflower lanyard.