The Sunflower glossary
The Sunflower glossary
This glossary offers clarity and insight into the language and concepts associated with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.
A - D
Accessibility icons. The icon used by Sunflower-friendly businesses to indicate their accessibility features on our Sunflower location map.
Ally. Sunflower supporters, or allies, have learned about the Sunflower, understand its meaning, and feel confident approaching someone wearing the Sunflower. Supporters may or may not have a disability themselves. They typically wear white Sunflower Supporter items to show they are allies who can offer assistance.
Ambassador. An individual, usually with a non-visible disability and/or a family member with a non-visible disability, that champions the Sunflower nationally.
E - H
Hidden disability. A disability, condition, or illness tA disability that is not immediately apparent to others. It may also be called a non-apparent disability or invisible disability. Examples include chronic pain, mental health disorders, autism, learning disabilities, and sensory impairments.
HD Sunflower. When talking about our company, always use "Hidden Disabilities Sunflower". With prior approval, in local markets where the term 'hidden disabilities' is challenging to pronounce or conveys a negative meaning, our company can be called 'HD Sunflower'.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme. Since "scheme" can have a negative connotation, we use "program" instead when referring to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. Our preferred term is the "Sunflower program."
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. Our preferred term is the Sunflower program. Do not capitalise 'program'.
I - L
Location map. The map lists all the Sunflower member venues trained to support Sunflower wearers.
M - O
Member. A business or charity that purchases a Sunflower membership and commits to making their business(es) Sunflower-friendly.
Non-visible disability. Refers to a disability, condition, or illness that cannot be seen or is not immediately apparent. It may also be called a hidden, non-apparent disability or invisible disability.
P - T
Partner. A formal agreement between Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and another company to promote products or services. We have regional partners and brand partners.
Sunflower icons. Indicate specific support needs for Sunflower wearers such as 'Needing extra time', 'Sound sensitivity' or 'May need a place to sit down'. Our free Sunflower icons poster provides an overview of all the icons — download it here.
Sunflower Friend. An individual, usually with a non-visible disability and/or a family member with a non-visible disability champions the Sunflower locally within their community.
Sunflower Lanyard. A green lanyard adorned with a sunflower symbol, used as a discreet way for individuals with non-visible disabilities to indicate that they may need extra support or understanding.
Sunflower symbol. Distinct sunflower on light green background. The Sunflower symbol represents all non-visible disabilities, conditions and chronic illnesses.
Supporter. Sunflower supporters, or allies, have learned about the Sunflower, understand its meaning, and feel confident approaching someone wearing it. Supporters may or may not have a disability themselves. They typically wear white Sunflower Supporter items to show they are allies who can offer assistance.
U - Z
Wearer. Sunflower wearers wear green Sunflower items to indicate they have a disability or condition that is non-visible or may not be immediately apparent. By wearing the Sunflower, individuals indicate to those around them that they may need extra help, support or a little more time.