As someone with a condition that may not be obvious, e.g. hidden, I was delighted recently to learn of a new national initiative called the “Sunflower Lanyard.”
The brightly coloured green lanyard, adorned with sunflowers, is voluntarily worn by people with hidden disabilities, such as autism, anxiety, hearing impairments, dementia etc. It acts as a discreet sign for staff that additional help or support may be required.
A growing number of supermarkets, retail stores, airports, railways, visitor attractions and leisure providers are registering to be part of the scheme and training their staff accordingly. Our local Sainsbury’s store is one of them.
If you feel you’d be more confident and reassured when out and about by wearing a Sunflower Lanyard (just in case you may need extra help), they’re available from airports or any participating store or attraction.
Barbara Breakwell