The Sunflower Lanyard Scheme

How Can It Help in Social Situations?

Wearing the sunflower lanyard can:

• Communicate Your Needs Without Words:

  • It indicates to staff and others that you may need help, such as more time to process information or support with tasks.

• Encourage Patience and Understanding:

  • People are more likely to approach with sensitivity and give you the time or space you need.

• Provide Access to Assistance:

  • Many organisations train their staff to recognise the lanyard and offer specific accommodations, such as:

    • Priority access or queuing assistance.

    • Additional explanations or adjustments in services.

    • Quiet spaces or alternative arrangements.

• Reduce Stress in Public:

  • Knowing that others are aware of your needs can make navigating social or public settings less overwhelming.

Where Can You Get a Sunflower Lanyard?

You can obtain a sunflower lanyard from the following places:

In-Person:

• Supermarkets:

  • Tesco: Available free at customer service desks. Ask a staff member for assistance.

  • Sainsbury’s: Many branches offer lanyards free of charge; inquire at the customer service desk.

  • Morrisons: Available at the customer service desk in most stores.

  • Asda: Sunflower lanyards can be requested at customer service counters.

• Airports:

  • Heathrow Airport: Available at assistance desks in every terminal.

  • Gatwick Airport: Obtain a lanyard at any assistance point.

  • Manchester Airport: Visit the Special Assistance desk to request a lanyard.

• Train Stations:

  • Larger stations like London Euston, Birmingham New Street, and Leicester Railway Station often provide sunflower lanyards at their customer service desks.

Online:

• Hidden Disabilities Store:

  • Purchase lanyards directly from the official website: Hidden Disabilities Store.

  • Kits are available with lanyards and ID cards to explain your specific needs.

Local Organisations:

• Disability charities and support groups often distribute sunflower lanyards for free or a small donation.

• Check with local branches of organisations like Mencap or Scope.

Hospitals and GP Surgeries:

• Many NHS trusts support the scheme. Ask at reception or the Patient Experience Team if sunflower lanyards are available at your hospital or surgery.

Additional Guidance for Using the Lanyard

• Pair It with Other Communication Tools:

  • Attach a card to your lanyard explaining your specific needs, such as:

    • "I may need extra time to process information."

    • "Please speak clearly and directly to me."

• Carry a Backup Plan:

  • Have a pre-written note or message on your phone explaining what you need, in case additional clarification is required.

• Use It During Travel:

  • Airports, train stations, and public transport services often offer assistance if you are wearing the lanyard. Look for signs indicating where to find help.

• Explain It to Others If Needed:

  • If someone doesn’t recognise the lanyard, you can use a note or pre-written card to explain what it means.

• Feedback to Organisations:

  • If you find the scheme isn’t well recognised in a location, consider providing feedback to encourage better awareness.

How to Access Help

If you need more information about the sunflower lanyard or assistance, here’s how to contact key organisations:

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme:

• Website: www.hiddendisabilitiesstore.com

• Email Support: info@hiddendisabilitiesstore.com

• Phone: 0330 912 0007 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm)

Local Support:

• Citizens Advice:

  • Website: www.Citizensadvice.org.uk

  • Phone: 0800 144 8848

Transport Help:

• National Rail Enquiries: www.nationalrail.co.uk

• Network Rail Assistance Line: 03457 11 41 41

Final Thoughts

The sunflower lanyard can significantly ease social interactions by non-verbally communicating your needs and ensuring others approach with understanding and patience.