Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust has become a member of the Sunflower
Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust (RUHX) is proud to introduce the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to the RUH Bath to encourage a culture of inclusivity, acceptance and understanding.
Globally, 1 in 6 people live with a disability – and it is estimated that up to 80% of those are living with a non-visible disability. Some disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. For some people, this can make it hard to understand and believe that someone, with a “non-visible” condition genuinely needs support. Some people question whether you have a disability because you don’t look ‘like you have a disability".
Which is why RUHX has launched their membership at RUH to encourage awareness, inclusivity, acceptance and understanding. So that everyone has an opportunity to share that they might need some additional support.
The Sunflower is a simple tool for patients or staff to voluntarily share that they have a non-visible disability. Simply by wearing the Sunflower, it lets everyone know that the wearer might need extra help, understanding, or just more time.
Sunflower lanyards & Sunflower cards, and wristbands will now be available for free across the RUH and are available for staff, patients and their carers, and visitors to collect and keep. There is no qualifying list of individual disabilities to wear the Sunflower, and the individual does not need to explain what their disability is to claim one.
RUHX Associate Director Rhyannon Boyd said about supporting this:
“The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is an important, discreet symbol that helps make people feel safe and supported in a hospital environment. By being official supporters, we are reassuring those with non-visible disabilities that they are safe and supported at the RUH. We are delighted to support this important improvement, which will make a positive difference to many patients, carers and staff members.”
Jo Baker, Associate Director for Vulnerable People, said whilst launching this onsite at the RUH on 18th November:
“We’re proud to launch the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower at the RUH. The Sunflower is a recognised symbol indicating that a person has a non-visible disability and may need a little extra support, understanding, or time. This matters because not all disabilities are immediately apparent. At the RUH, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for everyone—patients, visitors, and staff alike. Through this initiative, we aim to ensure that people with non-visible disabilities feel welcome, respected, and supported. The Sunflower serves as a reminder for us all to act with kindness, compassion, and patience. Sometimes this can be as simple as offering extra time, practical assistance, or clearer communication to those who need it. A good starting point is simply asking: ‘Can I help with anything?’ ”
Learn more about RUHX by visiting its website here, ruhx.org.uk