Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower (formerly Hidden Disabilities Lanyard)

Many people live with disabilities or health conditions that are not immediately visible. These can include neurological conditions, chronic pain, autism, learning disabilities, mental health conditions, respiratory illnesses and many other long-term health issues.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme offers a simple, voluntary way for someone to signal that they may need additional understanding, patience or assistance.

Originally introduced in the UK in 2016 at Gatwick Airport, the initiative has grown into an internationally recognised programme. Today, the sunflower symbol is used across the UK and worldwide.

 

What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognised initiative that uses a green lanyard (or card or badge) decorated with bright yellow sunflowers as a discreet sign that the wearer has a non-visible disability.

Wearing the Sunflower does not mean someone is asking for special treatment. Instead, it indicates that they may:

• Need more time

• Require clearer communication

• Benefit from additional support

• Need patience or understanding during interactions

The scheme is entirely voluntary. People choose when and where to wear the Sunflower, depending on how they are feeling and the situation they are in.
 

Where is it recognised?

The Sunflower symbol is now widely recognised across the UK, including:

• Major airports

• Railway stations and public transport networks

• Supermarkets and retail stores

• Leisure venues

• NHS settings

• Public services

• Increasing numbers of private businesses and employers

Many organisations train staff to recognise the Sunflower and to respond appropriately and sensitively.
 

Arthritis Action joins the Sunflower network

The charity Arthritis Action has recently become a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme, highlighting how arthritis can be a non-visible and fluctuating condition.

There are over 10 million people living with arthritis in the UK. For many, the impact of the condition is not immediately obvious. Symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, fatigue and reduced mobility can vary from day to day, with flare-ups that make ordinary activities significantly more difficult.

By joining the Sunflower network, Arthritis Action is providing people with arthritis a voluntary way to signal that they may need additional support or understanding in public spaces.

Importantly, because arthritis is often a dynamic condition, the Sunflower can be worn only when needed. This flexibility can be particularly helpful for people whose symptoms flare and subside.

There is also the option to personalise a Sunflower card and lanyard to reflect specific needs.
 

Shantel Irwin, CEO of Arthritis Action, said:

“By joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, Arthritis Action is reinforcing its commitment to raising awareness of the many invisible ways arthritis can affect daily life, and to supporting people to live well with greater understanding and inclusion.”

Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, said:

“Arthritis can have a huge impact on individuals living with it. As a dynamic disability, which features painful flares that aren’t immediately obvious, the Sunflower gives the wearer the confidence that if they need support and understanding, they will get it. We are delighted to welcome Arthritis Action to the Sunflower network and look forward to working together to raise knowledge and awareness of arthritis and the role the Sunflower plays in supporting people with non-visible disabilities.”

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Why the scheme matters

For many disabled people, one of the hardest aspects of living with a non-visible condition is having to repeatedly explain themselves – or being judged when their needs are not obvious.

The Sunflower offers:

• A non-verbal way to communicate need

• Greater confidence when travelling or shopping

• Reassurance that support may be available

• Increased awareness among staff and the public

It is not a medical label or formal entitlement. Rather, it is a conversation starter and a signal of potential need.
 

A reminder about choice and privacy

Not everyone with a non-visible disability will want to wear the Sunflower – and no one is required to do so. Disability is personal, and disclosure is always a matter of individual choice.

The strength of the scheme lies in offering an optional, visible tool that can make everyday interactions easier for those who choose to use it.

As awareness continues to grow, initiatives like Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, and organisations such as Arthritis Action joining the network, aim to foster greater understanding, patience and inclusion in everyday life.
 

Frequently Asked Questions about Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a voluntary scheme that uses a green lanyard, card or badge with a sunflower symbol to indicate that the wearer has a non-visible disability and may need additional support, time or understanding.

It is not an official pass or entitlement. It is simply a discreet way to signal that someone may need assistance.

Who can wear a Sunflower lanyard?

Anyone with a non-visible disability, long-term health condition or additional need can choose to wear a Sunflower lanyard if they feel it would be helpful.

Non-visible disabilities can include (but are not limited to):

Autism and learning disabilities

Chronic pain conditions

Mental health conditions

Respiratory illnesses

Neurological conditions

Arthritis and other fluctuating conditions

There is no formal assessment required. The scheme is based on trust and personal choice.

Do you have to explain your condition if you wear one?

No. Wearing a Sunflower does not require you to disclose your diagnosis or medical details.

It simply signals that you may need patience, clearer communication or practical support. Whether or not you choose to explain more is entirely up to you.

Is the Sunflower recognised everywhere?

The Sunflower is widely recognised across the UK and internationally, including in:

Airports and transport hubs

Supermarkets and retail settings

NHS facilities

Leisure venues

Public services and workplaces

However, recognition can vary depending on the organisation and staff training. It does not guarantee specific adjustments, but it often helps start a supportive conversation.

Is it compulsory to wear a Sunflower if you have a non-visible disability?

No. The scheme is completely voluntary.

Some people prefer not to wear anything that identifies them. Others find it helpful in certain situations, such as travelling, shopping or attending appointments. The choice always rests with the individual.

Where can you get a Sunflower lanyard or card?

Sunflower lanyards and cards can be obtained through participating organisations or via the official Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.

Some charities, including Arthritis Action, now offer personalised cards and lanyards tailored to specific needs.

Is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower the same as the “hidden disabilities lanyard”?

Yes. The scheme was originally widely referred to as the “hidden disabilities lanyard”. It is now formally known as Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.

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Further reading and resources

Find out more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower on their website: https://hdsunflower.com/uk/ (external link will open in a new browser tab or window)

Arthritis and benefits

Blue Badge eligibility has been extended, some people with hidden disabilities now qualify

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