The Sunflower programme was created to support people with non-visible disabilities and conditions who may need additional time or assistance in busy public environments, such as airports, which can present significant sensory or cognitive challenges. The Sunflower has helped many people with non-visible disabilities access travel and public spaces with greater confidence and dignity, particularly those who may otherwise find these environments more difficult to navigate.
The purpose of the Sunflower
The Sunflower itself does not guarantee access to airport lounges, upgrades, priority boarding or fast-track services. Any support arrangements are determined independently by individual airports, airlines and transport operators under their own accessibility policies. Many non-visible disabilities, conditions and chronic illnesses can have a very real impact on how people experience travel. For some individuals, crowded and stimulating environments can be difficult to manage.
One Sunflower wearer shared:
“Without the Sunflower, airports can feel overwhelming and stressful for me. Having staff who understand that I may need a little more time or support makes it possible for me to travel independently.”
Non-visible disabilities and diagnosis
We also recognise that not every person with a non-visible disability will have a formal diagnosis. In some cases, diagnosis can take years. The Sunflower exists to encourage empathy, patience and respectful support without making people feel forced to publicly disclose personal medical details. The Sunflower continues to help people with non-visible disabilities navigate public spaces with greater confidence and dignity.
It is important that public debate does not create further stigma or discourage people with non-visible disabilities from seeking support when they need it.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower continues to help millions of people around the world travel, work and access public spaces with greater confidence, dignity and independence.