What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent – and that you may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces.

Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it is not there

Globally 1 in 7 of us live with a disability. That is approximately 1.3 billion people.

But while some of us experience a disability that is visible, many have a non-visible condition or experience a combination of both visible and non-visible conditions. These disabilities can be temporary, situational or permanent. They can be neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental as well as physical, visual, auditory and include sensory and processing difficulties. They can also be respiratory as well as chronic health conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, chronic pain and sleep disorders.

 

Your Sunflower training

These training videos will help you identify and understand the purpose of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. You will also gain an understanding of what a non-visible disability is, become confident to approach and support people who are wearing the Sunflower as well as find out the meaning of each Sunflower icon used by Sunflower wearers to indicate the type of help they may need.

Once you have finished your training, let your Volunteer Coordinator know and you will receive your Sunflower Certificate.