Newcastle Transport Joins the Sunflower Initiative: Enhancing Support for Passengers with Hidden Disabilities
We are proud to announce that Keolis Downer Hunter Region (Newcastle Transport) has joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, demonstrating their commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all passengers.
Living with a hidden disability can make daily life more challenging, especially when others may not recognise the need for assistance. By participating in the Sunflower initiative, Newcastle Transport aims to ensure that everyone travelling on their bus, ferry, or light rail services feels safe, supported, and confident.
Empowering Passengers with Sunflower Lanyards
Passengers can discreetly signal their need for extra support or time during their journey by wearing a Sunflower lanyard. These lanyards serve as a subtle indicator to the Newcastle Transport team that a passenger may need additional assistance, whether it’s during boarding, disembarking, or navigating stressful situations.
Newcastle Transport’s drivers have received specialised training to recognise the Sunflower lanyard and provide the appropriate support. This training ensures that passengers with hidden disabilities receive the care they need without feeling singled out.
Paul Picton, Bus Operator, expressed his support for the initiative, saying:
This is a great initiative to raise awareness, as there are many people out there with hidden disabilities. The Sunflower lanyard discreetly informs us that a customer may need more time to board or alight or may need some support during their journey.
Don Shorter, Bus Operator, also shared his enthusiasm for the Sunflower initiative, not only as a bus driver but also from his personal experience as a father.:
I’m really excited about Keolis Downer getting behind this initiative. From my personal experience, people with a disability do not want to be seen as different. This initiative is great in that it subtly lets others know they may need some additional help without drawing too much attention.
Passengers can collect complimentary Sunflower lanyards at Hamilton Bus Depot and train stations including Newcastle Interchange and Broadmeadow Station.
Click here for more information about Newcastle Transport.